Relational Maintenance Strategies on Facebook

• In Event: Relationship Maintenance Across Communication Media

Abstract

This paper examines Facebook as a site for individuals to maintain their relationships. Using Canary et al.'s (1993) maintenance strategy typology, this study found that Facebook users maintain their relationships using all 10 strategies presented by Canary et al. A new strategy also emerged from the research, surveillance. This paper discusses the maintenance strategies, as well as how these strategies may vary in usage based on the type of relationship.

Authors

• Erin Bryant, Arizona State University

• Jennifer Marmo, Arizona State University