Face-to-Face and Online Friendships: Examining Differences in Trust and Distrust Based on Modality

Abstract

There is growing concern that the quality and psychological benefits of online friendships are not comparable to their face-to-face counterparts. Trust is a key component of relationships and has been studied within the context of virtual relationships for decades. However, previous literature has not thoroughly explored differences in trust among online friendships and online gaming friendships specifically. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in trust and distrust in online friendships based on the relationship’s modality (face-to-face or online). We collected questionnaire responses from participants (n = 253) regarding characteristics of their friendships as well perceptions of trust and distrust within these relationships. Repeated measures multivariate analysis of covariance did not reveal statistically significant differences between trust and distrust as a function of friendship modality. We discuss these results in terms of theoretical and practical implications for modern friendships and offer recommendations for future research.