The I / O / i Network Hypothesis™

The I / O / i Network Hypothesis™ proposes a conceptual framework examining how individuals experience social connection, information circulation, and perceived inclusion within interpersonal and technologically mediated networks. The hypothesis introduces three theoretical orientations: O, characterized by a perceived need to remain connected and informed; I, characterized by curiosity about social information without dependence on continuous inclusion; and i, characterized by voluntary participation, attention autonomy, and tolerance for disconnection. Drawing conceptual connections to graph theory, social network analysis, belongingness research, and information diffusion, the paper explores how communication networks may reinforce perceived membership, influence information-sharing behavior, and transmit interpretations across individuals. Four proposed dimensions—inclusion need, content curiosity, disconnection tolerance, and attention autonomy—provide a preliminary foundation for future empirical investigation. Six testable hypotheses and a proposed research methodology are presented. The framework distinguishes observable communication behavior from inferred psychological motivations and considers alternative explanations, ethical limitations, and criteria for falsification. This publication is a theoretical working paper presenting an original interpretive model, not an empirically validated psychological classification.