Virtual self-image as a coping behavior complex strategy of an Internet user

Abstract

The virtual self-image acts not only as a significant element of interpersonal interaction. It also plays a crucial role in the self-determination and self-categorization of the user in his environment. The virtual self-image performs the most important function of a filter and repeater of external influences, including negative ones. The purpose of the article is to identify the relationship between the choice of coping strategies of Internet users and the components of their virtual images. Methodology and methods: the Lazarus-Folkman Coping test and the author's method “Content and structural components of the virtual image of the Internet user's self-image”. Statistical analysis of the data obtained during the study was carried out using the SPSS 26.0 software and the Pearson correlation coefficient. The study involved 80 (n = 80) students of Yakubov Crimean Engineering-Pedagogical University (age from 17 to 26 years, 71% women, 29% men, M = 21.06; SD = 2.54) Results: the coping strategies chosen by the user are reflected in the content and structural components of the virtual self-image.  The prevailing coping strategies of the user are reflected in the content and structural components of the virtual self-image. The confrontational coping strategy has a significant connection with the behavioral (remp = .249) and communicative (remp = .240), reflexive (remp = -.353) components of the virtual self -image; self-control – with visual (remp = .332), behavioral (remp = .573), auditory (remp = .345), and reflexive (remp = .491); social search – with visual (remp = .336), behavioral (remp = .663), rating (remp = .250), auditory (remp = .331) and reflexive (remp = .288); acceptance of responsibility – with behavioral (remp = .444), communicative (remp = .385), auditory (remp = .378) and reflexive (remp = .281); flight-avoidance strategy – with communicative (remp = .482), rating (remp = .241) and auditory (remp = .433); problem solving planning – with behavioral (remp = .294); positive overestimation – with visual (remp = .273), behavioral (remp = .250), auditory (remp = .274). Conclusion: The user constructs their self-presentation in the virtual space based on his preferred strategies of behavior in difficult situations, thereby building long-term protection against threats in real and virtual space.