Communal

Communal or Community Web sites are meeting or gathering places that allow users to become a part of a group that is usually focused on a common activity (e.g., hobbies), interest (e.g., finding a partner), or the regrouping of a past community (e.g., class reunions). Recent studies show that this communal activity is one of the most popular uses of the Web.

People engaging in the activities offered by these sites are seeking a sense of belonging. Such groups are organized around hobbies, sports activities, dancing, music, and myriad other activities. Dating and matchmaking sites are extremely popular and often take the place of the “old way” of meeting a partner, such as spending time at bars or dance clubs, or even going to church. Social trends and personal choice of how they spend their free time have isolated people. These online meeting places are an attempt to shorten the dating rituals of the past and to override the lack of face-to-face interpersonal time that plagues us today.