Running head: SOCIAL PENETRATION THEORY 1
Social Penetration Theory
Christopher Whitted
Austin Peay State University
SOCIAL PENETRATION THEORY 2
Abstract
Self-disclosure is the process of telling information about oneself in relationships. This is
believed to progress from expressing the most public details first and finishing with the most
intimate details. The Social Penetration Theory explores this framework and how relationships
are affected through self-disclosure. Several factors such as being face-to-face or being virtual
through other means like social media or by phone can contribute to self-disclosure rates.
Additionally, the idea behind reciprocity and “gain some to get some” is introduced as it is
believed to have some reward to share similarly. While much research has been performed on
these areas, there are some gaps in knowledge surrounding cultural impacts on self-disclosure.
Additionally, given the recent Covid-19 Pandemic, this study will research the impacts of self-
disclosure from a “socially distanced” perspective and explore the pattern in which it occurred or
changed. The study seeks to shed light on recent changes that ultimately impact the Social
Penetration Theory for years to come.
Keywords: self-disclosure, social penetration theory, Covid-19 Pandemic, reciprocity
SOCIAL PENETRATION THEORY 3
Social Penetration Theory
The Social Penetration Theory is based on framework first developed in 1973 from Irwin
Altman and Dalmas Taylor. This theory explores relationships and the “onion layer” associated
with disclosure from very public information to the most private information. “The theorists state
that the basis of relationship development is levels of self-disclosure that progress gradually and
orderly from peripheral layers to central layers of personality” (Chen and Nakazawa, 2009, p.
80). This theory assumes that several factors are achieved, this includes gratification, progression
over time, and that there is some possible personal gain from reciprocity with self-disclosure.
Self-disclosure has been explored in multiple settings, like being face-to-face or virtual. A few
variables that have been studied far less are the impacts of intercultural relationships and how the
increased use of virtual mediums during the pandemic affected self-disclosure.
The Social Penetration Theory has served as a foundation for many other theories in the
world of communication and psychology. Because of its importance, the need to further research
the topic in relation to current societal needs is important. Imagine going through the recent
pandemic without the technological advances shared by many. How might this have looked?
“Those reporting on more close relationships have higher solidarity than those reporting on more
distant relationships, solidarity has been positively correlated with relationship satisfaction”
(Dunleavy and Booth-Butterfield, 2009, p.421).
The availability of so many mediums to stay connected allow many the ability to stay
centered through this trying time and receive support from across the nation. “Presently, millions
of bloggers write and post photos to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences” (Tang and
Wang, 2012, p. 245). It is known that seeing support online and perceived similarity add to
improved health. (Malloch and Zhang, 2019) Despite being inundated with all things
SOCIAL PENETRATION THEORY 4
surrounding Covid-19, as great communicators it serves purpose to further explore the Social
Penetration Theory in the recent context of a more virtual experience with self-disclosures and
relationships. Likewise, looking at perspectives of different cultures may prove valuable for
current and future research.
This research is fundamental to future communication both inside and outside of a
pandemic. When significant events occur, it is incumbent to look at all areas surrounding the
event to offer impact in future events of similar nature. When researching literature there is very
little exploration of communication and disclosure throughout the pandemic and surrounding
cultural effects of such. This study will attempt to shed light on new areas of research that can
add to future studies. As experts (or future experts) in communication, the duty to lend to overall
theories and support growth of generations to come is key. “Self-disclosure is one of the most
