It's a myth that people lie in chatrooms

Dr Jeff Gavin, University of Bath

He is not surprised by the act of virtual kindness shown by the users of the chatroom.

"Chatrooms are very supportive environments particularly with regular users."

Contrary to popular belief that chatroom users often invent personalities for themselves, Dr Gavin has found that most people tend to be extremely honest.

"It's a myth that people lie in chatrooms. About two-thirds are honest with just a bit of self-enhancement which happens just as often in the offline world," he said.

According to Dr Gavin, people often tend to seek out people of similar backgrounds and interests who are geographically close.

Half of chatroom regulars interviewed by Dr Gavin went on to meet face to face after forging a close relationship online.