Self disclosure

Question 1

Social penetration theory

Answer 1

• Altman and Taylor
• gradual revealing of information
• trust

Question 2

Breadth and Depth

Answer 2

Breadth: initially superficial ‘low-risk info’ becomes deeper as goes along
- depenetration = dissatisfied

Question 3

Reciprocity

Answer 3

Reis and Shaver
- balance needed for relationship to develop as increases intimacy

Question 4

Research support

Answer 4

Sprecher and Hendrick
- straight couples
- strong correlation between satisfaction and self disclosure, more committed
Sprecher 2013: relations more satisfying when self disclosure is reciprocal
- increase validity

Question 5

Correlational

Answer 5

• assumed self disclosure causes satisfaction but could be other way around or third variable
• reduces validity

Question 6

Real world application

Answer 6

Haas and Stafford
- 57% homosexuals said main way of relationship maintenance is self-disclosure
- if taught could increase relationship issues

Question 7

Cultural differences

Answer 7

Tang:
- reviewed research into self disclosure
- individualist > collectivist
- no difference in satisfaction
- limited explanation as based on individualist

Question 8

Self disclosure and breakdown

Answer 8

Duck’s breakdown model: partners often self-disclose more when relationship deteriorates
- doesn’t increase satisfaction