L2 - Self Disclosure

Question 1

What is a factor that affects attraction in a romantic relationship?

Answer 1

Self- disclosure

Question 2

What is self disclosure?

Answer 2

Revealing personal info such as thoughts, feelings and experiences to another person

Question 3

What is the theory that describes self disclosure?

Answer 3

Social Penetration Theory - by gradually revealing emotions and experiences, couples gain a greater understanding of each other and display trust. Self disclosure increases attraction

Question 4

What happens when people build trust in their partner?

Answer 4

• Self disclosure increases (breadth + depth)
• Beginning: disclosing superficial details like hobbies. Gradually revealing more intimidate details like family values
• Self-disclosing too quickly reduces attraction

Question 5

What do people expect?

Answer 5

• The same level of self-disclosure from others as they give

- Reciprocal self disclosure

Question 6

Evaluation (+)

Answer 6

(+) Research supports this theory. They found that self-disclosure on the first date is inappropriate and did not increase attraction levels. Person who self-disclosed seemed maladjusted or not likeable
(+) Conducted research agreeing that SD is a gradual process that affects attraction. Analysis of Bog Brother showed that viewers did not like contestants who self-disclosed early on, and preferred the opposite.
(+) Found research for different cultures. Japanese and American students in diff types of relationships had high SD in heterosexual relationships

Question 7

Evaluation (-)

Answer 7

(-) Found evidence that the level of SD received is the best predictor of liking and loving rather than the amount of SD given. Goes against reciprocal self-disclosure
(-) Unlikely that attraction is based on SD alone, other factors are needed like physical attraction, similarity of attitudes and complementarity of needs