hoofdstuk 10 Flashcards
What is the Social Penetration Theory?
Social Penetration Theory describes the process of relationship bonding whereby individuals move from superficial communication to more intimate communication. This includes both verbal and non-verbal behaviors.
What are the main assumptions of the Social Penetration Theory?
The main assumptions are: Relationships progress from non-intimate to intimate, relational development is systematic and predictable, relational development includes depenetration and dissolution, and self-disclosure is at the core of relationship development.
What is the onion analogy in Social Penetration Theory?
The onion analogy refers to the layers of a person’s personality. The outer layer is an individual’s public image, and inner layers represent deeper, more personal aspects of the person. As a relationship develops, these layers are peeled back.
What are the two dimensions of penetration in the Social Penetration Theory?
The two dimensions are breadth, referring to the number of topics discussed in the relationship, and depth, referring to the degree of intimacy guiding the discussions.
How does Social Penetration Theory incorporate principles of Social Exchange Theory?
The theory incorporates social exchange principles by considering the exchange of resources between individuals, and assessing a reward/cost ratio. The balance between positive and negative experiences regulates the closeness of a relationship.
What are the four stages of the social penetration process?
he four stages are:
1. Orientation stage (superficial aspects are revealed),
2. Exploratory affective exchange stage (expansion of the public areas of the self),
3. Affective exchange stage (freewheeling, casual interactions and further commitment), and
4. Stable exchange stage (open expression of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, high degree of spontaneity and relational uniqueness).
What is depenetration in the context of Social Penetration Theory?
Depenetration refers to the process where relationships start to fall apart, and communication moves a relationship back toward non-intimacy. This process can lead to relationship dissolution, but not necessarily - it might also lead to the addressing of relational transgressions.
What is the role of self-disclosure in Social Penetration Theory?
Self-disclosure is the purposeful process of revealing information about oneself to others, which is central to moving relationships from non-intimate to intimate stages. It shapes the present and future relationship and makes the self accessible to the other person.
What is the heuristic value of the Social Penetration Theory?
The Social Penetration Theory is highly heuristic. It encourages new thoughts and research and has significantly contributed to our understanding of relationship development.
What is the critique of the Social Penetration Theory in terms of scope?
The critique includes the idea that self-disclosure may be too narrowly interpreted and depends on various factors, not simply the need to reveal to people over time. The theory’s linear approach to relationship development is also criticized, as relationships are embedded in other relationships which can affect communication between partners.
What are some of the limitations of the Social Penetration Theory?
Limitations of the theory include its narrow interpretation of self-disclosure and its linear view of relationship development. The theory may not fully consider external influences on the relationship or the complex interplay between openness and closeness.
How does the Social Penetration Theory view the concept of openness and closeness in relationships?
The Social Penetration Theory suggests that openness (self-disclosure) and closeness (privacy or withdrawal) are interrelated and operate in competing cycles within relationships. This push and pull of self-disclosure can influence the development of both friendships and romantic relationships.
How can the Social Penetration Theory help in understanding the challenges in relationship development?
The Social Penetration Theory can help individuals understand the process and challenges of moving from superficial to more intimate levels of communication in relationships. It provides insights into the role of self-disclosure, the balance between openness and closeness, and the effects of external influences on relationship dynamics.
How can the Social Penetration Theory help in understanding the challenges in relationship development?
The Social Penetration Theory can help individuals understand the process and challenges of moving from superficial to more intimate levels of communication in relationships. It provides insights into the role of self-disclosure, the balance between openness and closeness, and the effects of external influences on relationship dynamics.
