Final answer:
Social structures in online chat and social networking refer to the organization, rules, norms, and patterns of interaction that shape digital environments. They help organize and regulate cultural processes and influence social hierarchies and dynamics within online communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Social structures refer to the way a society is organized and the routines, activities, and objects that accomplish specific functions. In the context of online chat and social networking, social structures encompass the rules, norms, and patterns of interaction that shape these digital environments.
For example, in online chat rooms or social media platforms, there are typically established norms for behavior and communication. Users may have specific roles, such as moderators or administrators, to maintain order and facilitate discussion. These social structures help organize and regulate important cultural processes in the online world.