Papers of BAS

Abstracting / Indexing

Papers of BAS. Humanities and Social Sciences

Vol. 11, 2024, No. 2

Cyberpsychology research in Bulgaria: Overview and perspectives

Elena Tsankova

Abstract. The article provides an overview of Bulgarian cyberpsychology research and outlines perspectives for its future development. The findings from a review of Bulgarian cyberpsychology articles indicate that: 1) all major international research themes are present to varying degrees in the Bulgarian literature, with some current topics missing; 2) research methodology is biased towards qualitative and mixed; 3) the use of mostly Bulgarian samples reflects national reality but disallows cross-cultural comparisons; 4) the cited literature is largely international, with an emerging Bulgarian tradition. These observations are discussed in the light of international cyberpsychology research and two suggestions for further development of Bulgarian cyberpsychology research are put forward - leveraging unique strengths and directed effort.

Keywords: cyberpsychology, research, Bulgaria, overview, perspectives


 

Papers of BAS. Humanities and Social Sciences

Vol. 10, 2023, No. 1

First impressions in Internet and face-to-face communication:

A conceptual comparative analysis

Elena Tsankova

Abstract. Efficient Internet communication requires solid understanding of why and how social processes differ between Internet and face-to-face environments. This paper adds to the understanding of these differences in relation to first impressions. Drawing upon previous research, theory, and intuition, the text compares three central components of first impressions (input, process, and output) in Internet and in face-to-face communication. It is shown through real-life examples how certain features of each communication environment are likely to affect the formation of first impressions. The conclusion is drawn that all three components of first impressions can be influenced by the unique characteristics of the communication setting, and a recommendation is made towards mindful self-presentation and impression formation in both settings.

Keywords: social cognition, first impressions, Internet, face-to-face, comparative analysis