Social Penetration Theory

Who developed Social Penetration Theory?

Irwin Altman and Dalmas Taylor.

What does Social Penetration Theory explain?

The progression of relationships from shallow to deep communication.

What is the onion analogy in Social Penetration Theory?

It illustrates layers of personality that are revealed through self-disclosure.

What happens during the Orientation stage?

Engagement in small, harmless talks.

How does self-disclosure change as relationships develop?

It starts with peripheral information and moves to private details.

What characterizes the Stable stage of Social Penetration?

Both individuals understand each other's likes and dislikes.

What is the De-penetration stage?

The phase where communication ceases, often after a breakup.

What is a key strength of Social Penetration Theory?

Its simplicity in explaining relationship development.

What criticism is often directed at Social Penetration Theory?

It oversimplifies the complexity and variability of relationships.

What does the term 'norm of reciprocity' refer to?

The expectation that self-disclosure will be met with similar openness.

What is the difference between the Affective stage and the Stable stage?

Affective involves sharing personal feelings, while Stable is about mutual understanding.

How does Social Penetration Theory apply to online interactions?

It studies how relationships develop through social media and chat rooms.