Self-Disclosure

Abstract

In this chapter we examine various topics about self-disclosure and starting a relationship. We examine how background factors (e.g., culture, personality, and gender) and communication medium (e.g., face-to-face versus Internet communication) influence self-disclosure at the start of a relationship. We show how self-disclosure is incorporated into conversations to intensify or restrict intimacy and closeness between new acquaintances. We describe how the reactions of the disclosure recipient and the discloser to self-disclosure input assist new acquaintances to assess feelings of intimacy for one another and whether or not to seek a closer relationship. We also illustrate how a relationship-building exercise incorporating self-disclosure may increase feelings of closeness between new acquaintances. First, let us define self-disclosure and review influential, early approaches about the role of self-disclosure at the start of a relationship. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved

See Also: Self-disclosure and starting a close relationship.