Are Facebook relationships not like the real thing?

I'll say Facebook relationships are not like real-life ones, and I'll tell you why.

People act differently on Facebook than they do in face-to-face encounters because in the case of the former, there's an audience to take into account. Since others might see your posts (including your co-workers, family members, etc), you might be less inclined to post content that will be called into question or otherwise frowned upon.

For example, my closest friend refers to me as his best friend when we're conversing over the phone, but calls me "one of his best friends" when posting messages on my Wall. Could it be he doesn't wish to draw the ire of other close buddies? Is it possible he calls different people his best friend and doesn't want to ruffle anyone's feathers? Your guess is as good as mine.

I've also noticed people tend to be hypocritical on Facebook. Two friends may be on bad terms in "real life," but then you see them compliment pictures of each other's kids online.

It seems as though people create a facade on Facebook so as to give others the impression their lives are as peachy as can be. I think we're more likely to know what's really going on in the lives of those around us when we reach out to them the old-fashioned way -- via phone call or by paying a visit. Still, Facebook is a good way to keep others abreast of at least some of the goings-on in your life.

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