Self Disclosure

• Self Disclosure is a major feature in Altman and Taylor's (1973) social penetration theory. It is the gradual process of revealing your inner self to someone. It involved the reciprocal exchange of information between intimate partners.
• According to Altman and Taylor, self disclosure has two elements; breadth and depth. As these increase, we become more committed.
• Reis and Shaver (1988) point out, for a relationship to develop, as well as breadth and depth there needs to be reciprocal. A balance of self disclosure between both partners increases feelings of intimacy and deepens the relationship.