The more the better? A comparative study of the relationships among multimodal connectedness, online communication, and relational outcomes in China and the United States

Abstract

Based on samples of students in China and the United States (US), this research drew on concepts in relational dialectical theory and media multiplexity theory to examine relationships among multimodal connectedness, relational communication on media, the interdependence–entrapment dialectic, and relationship satisfaction. The results indicated that multimodal connectedness had an overall negative effect on romantic relationships because it increased the feeling of entrapment and reduced relationship satisfaction. This pattern was especially evident in the Chinese sample because multimodal connectedness reduced interpersonal communication and increased conflict management online. However, social sharing on media positively mediated the effect of multimodal connectedness on satisfaction in romantic relationships. These findings suggest that media modalities and use patterns are imperative factors in examining the influence of mediated relational communication on relational outcomes.