1. Social Penetration Theory
Dalmas Taylor
Irwin Altman

2. Social Penetration Theory (Altman & Taylor)
How develop IP closeness (i.e )?
Theory in a
IP Closeness
proceed gradually & orderly
Superficial  intimate exchng levels
motivat by current & predict. outcomes (Griffin, 1987)
Another
Process of intimacy dvlpment
w/ another person
Via and other

3. Definition of Self-Disclosure (S-D)
Information about ,
hearer wouldn’t ,
communicated &

5. Depth & Breadth Depth Breadth Can have… Personal signif.
RANGE of S-D across multiple areas
Can have…
one w/o other
Lots of Breadth, no depth!!
Lots of Depth, no breadth!!
Neither
Both breadth & depth

6. Deeper
Breadthier (wider) =
Fast at beg
Slower as progress…
Why not reveal all right away?
Gradual! Layer by Layer!
Plunging is “weird”
Rs usually “cool off” – rarely “end abruptly”

7. Intimacy Regulated on basis of Outcomes
Predicted outcomes
Perceived rewards & costs
For socpen to proceed…Mutual must of greater vulnerability (Process of social exchange)

8. Discuss…
Economic basis of theory:

9. Critiques Thry is estab/familiar explan. of IPV dvlpmnt
Is S-D = intimacy too simplistic? (Petronio)
Too “clear-cut” ?
(costs/rewards tallied to get deeper S-D?)
Predictability? Do we consistently act egotistically?