Lesson 2 - Self Disclosure Flashcards
What is Self-Disclosure (Self-Disclosure)
Several factors affect attraction in romantic relationships, one of these factors is self-disclosure. This is the revealing of personal information, such as thoughts, feelings and experiences to another person.
What does social penetration theory suggest (Self-Disclosure)
Self-disclosure is a central concept in social penetration theory proposed by Altman and Taylor (1973). This theory claims that by gradually revealing emotions and experiences to their partner, couples gain a greater understanding of each other and display trust. Therefore, self-disclosure will increase attraction.
How does Self-Disclosure change with trust (Self-Disclosure)
As people build trust in their partner, the breadth and depth of self disclosure will increase.
Self-Disclosure with low trust (Self-Disclosure)
In the beginning, people only disclose superficial details about themselves, such as hobbies and interests
Self-Disclosure with greater trust (Self-Disclosure)
Gradual reveal of more intimate details, such as family values and difficult experiences.
What happens if you Self-Disclose too fast (Self-Disclosure)
Self-disclosing too quickly (e.g. on a first date) can reduce attraction.
What is reciprocal Self-Disclosure (Self-Disclosure)
People expect the same level of self-disclosure from others as they actually
give. The more self-disclosure someone gives, the more self-disclosure they
expect in return. This is known as reciprocal self-disclosure.
Strengths of Self-Disclosure
Research conducted by Altman and Taylor (1973) supports the theory of self-disclosure. They found that self-disclosure on the first date is inappropriate and did not increase attraction levels. The person who was self-disclosing was seen as maladjusted and not very likeable.
Tal-Or (2015) conducted research which agrees with the fundamental concept of self-disclosure being a gradual process that can affect attraction for romantic relationships. Analysis of reality TV shows like Big Brother revealed that viewers did not like contestants who self-disclosed early on. They preferred the contestant who self-disclosed gradually.
Kito (2010) found research evidence to support the idea of self-disclosure across different cultures. Kito investigated Japanese and American students in different types of relationships, and found that self-disclosure was high for Japanese and American students in romantic relationships that were heterosexual.
Weaknesses of Self-Disclosure
Sprecher (2013) found research evidence that the level of self-disclosure received is the best predictor of liking and loving, rather than the amount of self-disclosure given. This goes against the idea of reciprocal self-disclosure.
It seems unlikely that attraction to a potential partner is based on self-disclosure alone. Self-disclosure might be an important element, but other factors are also needed in order to increase attraction, such as physical attraction, similarity of attitudes and complementarity of needs.
