The visual characteristics of avatars in computer-mediated communication: Comparison of Internet Relay Chat and Instant Messenger as of 2003

Authors:
Hye-Seung Kang;Hee-Dong Yang
Affiliations:
Ewha Womans University, College of Management, 11-1 Daehyun-dong, Sodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-750, Republic of Korea;Ewha Womans University, College of Management, 11-1 Daehyun-dong, Sodaemun-gu, Seoul 120-750, Republic of Korea
Venue:
International Journal of Human-Computer Studies
Year:
2006

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Abstract

This research focuses on computer-mediated communication where users are represented by a graphical avatar. An avatar represents a user's self-identity and desire for self-disclosure. Therefore, the claim is made that there is a relationship between the characteristics of media and the choice of avatar. This study supports the claim by examining the difference between Internet Relay Chat (IRC) avatars and Instant Messenger (IM) avatars as of 2003 when both media had distinct characteristics and popular avatar service in Korea. Users of IRC are generally anonymous and involved with topic-based group discussions, whereas users of IM are known by their ''real'' names and communicate via one-on-one chitchatting. We found that avatars as symbols for users can have different characteristics in terms of self-identity and self-disclosure in different media. Gender is found to have significant moderation effect on avatar usage, whereas age is shown to have a mixed moderation effect.