Self-disclosure

• What is the core definition of self-disclosure?

  Revealing personal information about yourself
• How do romantic partners typically change their self-disclosure as a relationship develops?

  They reveal more about their true selves
• What effect do appropriate revelations have on a relationship?

  They strengthen the relationship
• What does the image represent in terms of self-disclosure?

  • Initial superficial information shared
  • Gradual revelation of true selves
• What is the first layer of self-disclosure in a relationship?

  Superficial information about ourselves
• What is Social Penetration Theory?

  Gradual process of revealing inner self
• What is required for a relationship to deepen according to Social Penetration Theory?

  Reciprocal exchange of sensitive information
• What does revealing personal information signify in a relationship?

  It is a sign of trust
• What happens during depenetration in a relationship?

  Partners disclose less as they disengage
• What are the two elements of self-disclosure?

  Breadth and depth
• How does breadth of disclosure change in early relationships?

  It is narrow with many off-limit topics
• What does the onion metaphor represent in self-disclosure?

  Progressive removal of layers to reveal true selves
• What type of information might be revealed at deeper levels of self-disclosure?

  Intimate, high-risk information
• What is the role of reciprocity in self-disclosure according to Reis & Shaver?

  Disclosure must be received sensitively
• What should happen after one partner discloses information?

  It should lead to further self-disclosure
• What did John disclose during his date with Mary?

  His anxieties about work
• What did Mary disclose during her date with John?

  Her sadness about her father's illness
• What is a strength of self-disclosure supported by research studies?

  • Sprecher & Hendrick (2004) found strong correlations
  • Self-disclosure linked to satisfaction in couples
  • Increased commitment with self-disclosure
• What is a counterpoint to the findings of Sprecher and Hendrick?

  • Correlation does not imply causation
  • Satisfied partners may disclose more
  • Time spent together may influence both
• What is a real-life application of self-disclosure?

  • Hass & Stafford (1998) study findings
  • 57% of couples use self-disclosure as strategy
  • Encourages deeper relationships through communication
• What cultural difference exists in self-disclosure?

  • US individuals disclose more sexual thoughts
  • Chinese individuals disclose less but have similar satisfaction
  • Cultural context affects self-disclosure levels