The average person has double the amount of online friends than physical ones, a study has revealed.

People tend to be more open, confident and honest with their virtual friends than their “real” counterparts.

The study, commissioned by the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, shows that people typically have 121 online friends compared with 55 physical friends.

The research revealed that the internet provides a vital lifeline to people unable to physically socialise as much as they would like to.

Helen Oxley, consultant clinical psychologist at Manchester Adult Cystic Fibrosis Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital, said: “For most people, the internet is a way of keeping in touch with loved ones and friends, but for people who are isol-ated due to illness, it plays a more vital role and can often act as a lifeline.

“In wider society, the ways in which friendships are formed and nurtured is changing, with people recognising that they can develop deep, meaningful connections with others that they’ve never met, and may never meet.

“People with illnesses often rely on the internet’s ability to facilitate friendships as they blog and use networking sites as a way of coming to terms and dealing with their illness. It can foster a sense of social connection for those who can frequently feel isolated, which is important to psychological well-being.” The results also reveal that 30 per cent of those quizzed spend at least two hours a day on social networks interacting with friends.

One in 10 has either met their best friend online or believe they will meet lifelong friends on the web.

The findings highlight how social introductions are changing. Only five per cent would ask for someone’s phone number, whereas 23 per cent are more likely to ask for an e-mail address or a full name with the intention of adding them on a social network.