If you are more reserved about such things, you have lower self-disclosure levels.
This article discusses the characteristics of self-disclosure and why it is vital in relationships.
It also explores the potential benefits and risks of disclosing details about yourself.
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How Self-Disclosure Works
Self-disclosure typically starts off more general.
It also goes back and forth and involves a mutual sharing of information.
Self-Disclosure Is Mutual
Building a successful relationship involves a mutual give-and-take between partners.
But sometimes these personal revelations don’t go quite as planned.
Have you ever said a bit too much during a job interview?
Or posted something a little too personal onFacebook?
Inappropriate or poorly timed self-disclosure can sometimes lead to embarrassment and can even damage relationships.
Self-Disclosure Is Reciprocal
So how do people determine what to disclose about themselves and when?
What Causes People to Self-Disclose?
Why do we feel a need to reciprocate in such situations?
When someone shares something intimate, it creates a sort of imbalance.
Personality
Overallpersonalitycan play an important role.
This is particularly true in situations where people are anxious or afraid of something.
Anxiety can increase how much they share with others, often to gain support and alleviate these fears.
Social Comparison
How we compare ourselves to others can also influence how much we self-disclose.
According to thesocial comparison process, people tend to judge themselves based on how they measure up to others.
Benefits of Self-Disclosure
Self-disclosure is about more than just talking about yourself.
It is an ongoing conversation between people that deepens connections, creates intimacy, and builds supportive networks.
Feeling comfortable sharing with your therapist can also affect how much you benefit from therapy.
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