Knapp's Relational Model

Through communication, you create interpersonal relationships. However, they grow, develop and disappear. Online communication plays a role in what the relationship looks like and what happens to the relationship. 

I have an example of a fading relationship. Unfortunately, it involves me and my sister. I have a younger sister who I used to spend all my time with. As it happens, we've known each other since she was born and it's the most important relationship I have. But as we grow up and each build our own lives, our paths begin to separate. The biggest reason is that I'm studying abroad and I only see her 2 months out of the year. It's not related to us fighting or not being able to stand each other, but more so that we don't spend as much time together as we used to, we don't get to connect with each other as much due to full schedules and time difference. Online communication is the only option in this case to keep the relationship alive. Without it, it could completely fall apart. Online communication can't fully replace her presence and all the different goofy things we'd do together, but it's the best option we have at the moment. We spend a lot of time together every time I come home and it always makes our relationship stronger and sort of recharges it for the future when we are apart. I believe our bond is strong and our relationship will never completely fall apart!