Avatars

Avatars are a computer user's representation of themselves, whether in the form of a three-dimensional model used in computer games, a two-dimensional icon, picture, used on internet forums and other communities, or a text construct. It is an object representing the embodiment of the user. The term avatar can also refer to the personality connected with the screen name of an Internet user. There are several places where you can find avatars. These places are computer games, internet forums, instant messaging programs, blogs, and video games.
The users of these programs create the avatars. I believe that since the user creates them, and they are meant to represent the user. In doing so, then avatars reflect a person’s identity. If you’re making a representation of yourself to show to everyone using the same program as you, you want to make it an accurate representation. When you create it, you may dress your person in the same way as you; make them have the same haircut, hair color, eye color, or any other way to make that character represent yourself. Avatars don’t necessarily have to look like you; they could just be a symbol that represents one of your interests. A common example is the instant messaging program AIM. On AIM, each person can choose a buddy icon. This buddy icon can be anything from your favorite sports team to your favorite band. Although this isn’t a character that looks like you, it still reflects your identity.