Self-Disclosure

Self disclosure

Self-disclosure is the idea that relationship formation is built on trust with another person, which is demonstrated by gradually revealing personal information, such as thoughts, feelings and experiences that they might share with anyone else.

Disclosing thoughts and feelings and allowing a partner to reveal their ‘true selves’ leads to greater intimacy in romantic relationships, and ultimately to more satisfaction.

Eval self disclosure strength

One strength of the concept of self-disclosure is that is it supported by research. For example, Has and Hartford (1998) found that 57% of gay men and women considered open self-disclosure as a main way to maintain close relationships. This demonstrates the importance of self-disclosure in romantic relationships, just as the theory has predicted.

Cultural diff

Nu tang et al reviewed research into sexual disclosure. Concluded men and women in the us had significantly more sexual thoughts and feelings than in china.

disclosure another weakness

Correlational research

• A lot of self-disclosure research is correlational.

• So although it is usually assumed that greater self-disclosure creates more satisfaction, correlation tells us little about causal direction (i.e. what was the cause and what was the effect).

Social Penetration thoery

Reciprocal exchange of info between partners that deepens intimacy over time, emphasizing breadth and depth of self-disclosure.

Breadth and depth of self disclosure

Initially self disclosure is superficiall and low risk with some topics off limits As intimacy increases, self-disclosure becomes more personal and involves deeper, more sensitive topics.

reciprocity and disclosure

Refers to the mutual exchange of self-disclosure between partners, which enhances relational intimacy and trust.