How does online communication typically affect social relationships?

Online communication can both enhance connections and lead to a reduction in face-to-face social skills, which is why this choice is considered the correct answer.

In today's digital age, online platforms allow individuals to connect with others across distances, fostering relationships that might not have been possible otherwise. For instance, people can maintain friendships, support networks, and even familial ties through social media, messaging apps, and various online communities. This accessibility can lead to stronger social bonds and greater interaction frequency.

However, the reliance on online communication can also diminish one's ability to effectively engage in face-to-face interactions. This is because the nuances of in-person communication, such as body language and immediate feedback, can be less prominent or even absent in digital communications. As individuals become more accustomed to expressing themselves through screens, they might struggle with the social skills necessary for building and maintaining relationships in a physical setting.

The other choices do not accurately capture the complexities of online communication's impact on social relationships. Some might suggest that online communication is purely positive or that it completely eliminates misunderstandings, both of which oversimplify the realities of human interaction. Additionally, while online platforms can certainly strengthen emotional ties in some cases, they do not universally ensure stronger emotional connections compared to in-person interactions.