Self-Disclosure Summary

Self-Disclosure

• Definition: Self-disclosure involves sharing personal information that others wouldn't know without being told.

• Types of Information: Can range from basic (birthplace) to deep (fears, fantasies).

• Trust Factors: More likely to self-disclose to trusted individuals; less likely if respect is at stake.

• Mood Influence: Positive mood increases likelihood of self-disclosure; alcohol may lower inhibitions.

• Social Media: Women self-disclose more on platforms like Facebook; photo sharing encourages openness.

Johari Window Model

• Concept: Developed by Joseph Luft and Harry Ingham, represents self-awareness through four quadrants:

  • Open Area: Known to self and others.

  • Blind Area: Known to others, not known to self.

  • Hidden Area: Known to self, not known to others.

  • Unknown Area: Not known to self or others.

• Growth: More self-disclosure expands the open area.

Social Penetration Theory

• Theory Overview: Connection between intimacy and the breadth/depth of self-disclosure.

• Model Explanation:

  • Circular model representing potential self-disclosure information as "slices of pie".

  • Breadth: Variety of topics disclosed.

  • Depth: Level of intimacy of information shared.

• Stages: Relationships evolve from low-risk disclosures to deeper sharing, with intimacy increasing initially but potentially stabilizing over time.

Characteristics of Self-Disclosure

• Moderation by Rules: Governed by personal boundaries (Communication Privacy Management Theory).

• Dynamic: Levels and depth of self-disclosure vary over the relationship's lifecycle, often reflecting relationship changes.