Communication

Question 1

Social Penetration Theory

Answer 1

It argues that close relationships are formed by a process of gradual self-disclosure (sharing personal things about yourself with someone you trust).

Question 2

Self-validation aspect of Social Penetration Theory

Answer 2

Self-disclosure leads to self-validation. Researchers argue that disclosure is part of the cost-benefit analysis that takes place in relationships. (Process of disclosing, self-validation, feeling like the relationship has value, repeat)

Question 3

Different levels of disclosure

Answer 3

• The orientation stage (small talk without revealing vulnerability)
• The exploratory stage (starting show feelings and opinions - but still on “safe” topics)
• The affective stage (beginning to share personal/private information. Often, this is the stage where intimate physical relations form)
• The stable stage (One feels that they can be honest and open with a partner. Trust is strongly developed and one can predict the other person’s emotional reactions.)

Question 4

Collins and Miller (1984)

Answer 4

A meta analysis of self-disclosure studies that had the following findings:

• People who disclose are generally liked more
• They share more with people they like
• They tend to like someone more after sharing with them

and the link?
The findings suggest that self-disclosure is important for building and maintaining interpersonal relationships.

Question 5

3 cons

Answer 5

• Correlational research which causes bidirectional ambiguity (stronger relationships cause self-disclosure or other way round?)
• Sampling bias because it was studies of mostly Western women
• Reductionist as relationships are complex and cannot be fully explained self-disclosure alone.