4.1. Personal identity
Others have discussed the complexity of online impression management that blurs the distinction between the ideal and the
authentic (Ellison, Heino, & Gibbs, 2006; Suler, 2002). Our study extends the idea, suggesting that this ambiguous situation opens
up a new space for those experiencing a period of identity exploration to cultivate ideal selves by trying them out in virtual reality.
Emerging adults objectify possible identities through profile images, displaying them to a new kind of public audience.
Transcending physical limitations, public presentation presents a new mechanism for young adults to realize experimental aspects
of their identities.