Our extended online community is also much easier to switch to from a more localized community than maintaining the more physical relationships. The cyber community allows you connect when it's convenient rather than having to stop and talk when others have the time and yet it's large enough that there is always someone available when you need them. A cyber relationship is very gratifying and is good for immediate self-gratification. No one really minds much if you show up frequently or not, you are/become part of the community simply by being there at that moment.

I might also note that (at this time) there are much fewer consequences for bad behavior.