Week 10: Online persona: Backstage or Frontstage?

I find the whole notion of a persons online personality intriguing. Essentially a person can be backstage in their actions while being front stage at the same time. Websites that allow for online communication through platforms such a photo sharing, chat and so on allow people to communicate with people from the comfort of their own homes. No one can see you typing to your best friend on Facebook, or your new romantic interest. You could be naked, dressed quite daggy it wouldn't matter because no body in that public social domain can actually see you. However the absence of face to face contact makes for people to be more open. In my experience when chatting online, a persons deepest darkest secrets can come out, because they do not have to look at someone in the face. I have also found it takes away from the awkwardness of dating, I cannot remember the last time someone asked for my number, to my face. I can recall numerous occasions where I have been asked for my number online. I cannot decide whether a persons persona online is in fact a true representation of themselves or a representation of what they want to be. Depending on what platform I am using will depend on what I am trying to say or put out their to my online community of social connections. I upload photos of myself, but only photos I consider that I look attractive. I will make status updates but they will not have any personal information about me. However in Private chat, I will say whatever I like. In my experience I would have to say I am "middle stage" I am neither at the front nor the back.