http://www.virtuallovelink.com/relationship/virtual/problems/ Virtual relationship problems can be overwhelming if you don't know how to handle the many obstacles that can creep up. Use good judgement and avoid virtual relationship problems by making sure you follow your head and not your heart. en-us Tue, 22 Nov 2005 12:53:01 EST Tue, 22 Nov 2005 12:53:01 EST Weblog Editor 2.0 Virtual relationship problems are usually characterized by the types of problems that occur when carrying on an intimate online connection. They can be as simple as problems of distance or, can be as complex as issues of infidelity. When you are the victim, it doesn't really matter what the issue is as long as you can decide on a way to overcome whatever obstacles come your way. The term virtual relationship implies that all of your connections will be made online. While that may seem interesting, the thrill will soon drift away if you don't include the personal touch. We can all identify with the monotony of a desk job that is repetitious and boring. Use this analogy to identify how your own online connections could produce virtual relationship problems. Approaching the subject from a different perspective may even shed some light on how virtual relationship problems are affecting other parts of your life. Take, for example, a research study that examined other problems that were associated with using the virtual world. Many people who considered themselves "online junkies" were asked to describe their emotional states after their first two years of frequenting online sites. A large percentage of them reported that since they had became more and more reliant on the internet they had become less and less social. They recorded examples of less time spent with families and friends. As a result of this, many of them said that they felt increased levels of depression and loneliness. The psychologists who carried out the study concluded that there was a correlation between the amount of time spent online and increased feelings of social withdrawal. This resulted in the depression and loneliness that was reported. It just goes to show you that not all virtual relationship problems happen online. Take the time to evenly balance your online experiences and your personal, more intimate relationships. There is nothing that beats a one-on-one, face to face meeting with a friend or loved one. Be sure to stay open to all types of relationships. Virtual relationship problems can be overcome with a few simple rules. sf Tue, 22 Nov 2005 12:53:01 EST