8. RELATIONSHIPS (Factors Affecting Attraction - Self-Disclosure)) Flashcards
What is self-disclosure in the context of romantic relationships?
Self-disclosure is the sharing of personal information about oneself, which leads to increased attraction and relationship development.
What theory explains the role of self-disclosure in relationships?
Altman and Taylor’s (1973) Social Penetration Theory explains how relationships develop through gradual self-disclosure.
How does self-disclosure contribute to relationship development?
As partners reveal more personal information, they “penetrate” deeper into each other’s lives, increasing intimacy and attraction.
What are the two key elements of self-disclosure?
Breadth and depth.
What is meant by the breadth of self-disclosure?
At the start of a relationship, partners share low-risk information, such as general facts, to avoid overwhelming the other person.
What is meant by the depth of self-disclosure?
As the relationship develops, partners share high-risk information, such as painful memories and personal beliefs.
What is reciprocity of self-disclosure?
The expectation that if one partner self-discloses, the other will respond with understanding and also disclose personal information.
What study supports the role of self-disclosure in relationships?
Sprecher and Hendrick (2004) found strong correlations between reciprocal self-disclosure and relationship satisfaction in heterosexual couples.
What is a limitation of Sprecher and Hendrick’s (2004) study?
The study is culturally biased, as it focused on white, middle-class American couples.
What evidence suggests cultural differences in self-disclosure?
Tang et al. (2013) found that people in individualist cultures (e.g., the USA) disclose more sexual thoughts than those in collectivist cultures (e.g., China).
Why is correlational research a limitation of self-disclosure theory?
Correlational studies (e.g., Sprecher & Hendrick) do not show causation—other factors, such as perceived similarity, may influence attraction.
How does research into self-disclosure have practical applications?
It can be used in relationship counselling to help individuals improve communication and strengthen their romantic bonds.
What study supports the practical applications of self-disclosure research?
Hass and Stafford (1998) found that 57% of gay men and women said open and honest self-disclosure maintained and deepened their relationships.
How does online dating challenge self-disclosure theory?
Research by eHarmony and Imperial College Business School suggests that online self-disclosure differs from face-to-face interactions.
What is the boom and bust phenomenon in online relationships?
Online relationships can develop quickly (boom) due to anonymity but fail (bust) due to a lack of trust and real connection.
Why is the boom and bust phenomenon a limitation of self-disclosure theory?
The theory does not account for the increasing number of relationships that begin online, where self-disclosure patterns differ.
What is a key conclusion regarding self-disclosure and attraction?
Self-disclosure is not the only factor in attraction; physical attractiveness and other factors also play a role.
