Module Four: Interpersonal Communication and Self Disclosure

Module Four: Interpersonal Relationships
Chapter Thirteen

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How willing are you to self disclose?

Sharing ourselves is often regarded as an essential element in moving toward bonding. It is built into our cultural assumptions about what constitutes a close relationship. Yet, disclosing information about ourselves can also create risks.

Topic 22 Self-Disclosure

In this Discussion Board, I will ask you to reflect on the theories used in Chapter Thirteen that explain the importance of self disclosure: Uncertainty Theory, the Johari Window, the Social Penetration Model and the concept of Rhetorical Sensitivity.

Based on what you've experienced in interpersonal relationships and in light of some of the points made in the theories about self disclosure, do you think that self disclosure is important? What guidelines do you follow for making self disclosures?

We might also reflect on the differences in our attitudes about self disclosure, especially as they may be affected by our cultural assumptions and expectations related to gender.

Key Terms

uncertainty reduction
open window
hidden window
blind window
unknown window
breadth of disclosure
depth of disclosure
rhetorical sensitivity

There are several Weblinks that augment the discussion of self disclosure found in our textbook. In particular, use the link for the Johari Window, the pages from the Communication Studies Website and the page for Interpersonal Variables of Growth and Change from the Interpersonal Web.