An explination of the Social Penetration Theory

The first key (yet equal) element in SPT is breath of penetration. As stated in the text, A First Look at Communication Theory, the author, Em Griffin, gives us a definition as such; “The range of areas in an individual’s life over which disclosure takes place.” (2011). The beginnings of self-disclosure include breath such as facts pertaining to biographical or demographical data. The use of identity management limits this range at first and then expands to include all aspects of our life. Cliché’s are incorporated into conversations. Generally accepted responses are applied to alleviate initial rejection in normal social environments. Topics include our favorites in music, styles and food. Once a personal opinion is given we begin to give off clues about ourselves. Usually this is in small increments to build up our confidence to increase the range of topics of our lives we discuss. Once we reach a comfortable stage we then begin to peel away the layers thus leading to the equally important key element: depth.

There is a children’s song, referring to Gods love, which is the simple message “There’s a fountain flowing deep and wide.” (Unknown) We have explored the wide (breadth), now let’s examine the deep (depth). Griffin introduces depth as “…the degree of intimacy”. The definition given states, “The degree of disclosure in a specific area of an individuals life.” (2011) Wedges are now being pushed into our layers, exposing others more personal details about ourselves. As this is a shift from basically impersonal data it tends to lend itself to more of a one on one dialogue. Attesting to the increased confidence level this shift deepens the intimacy of the relationship. Not to be confused per say with sexual intimacy, this is m...

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...s from others. Our levels of social influence can be lost or increase based on the information we share. Once a group knows you’re an expert at “it” you are voted the lead presenter. Or, let’s say you disclose a certain distain for a political figure and your no longer invited to the PTA meetings. Your control over a situation or individual is at risk to be gained or lost. One of the worst emotions in a relationship is disappointment, once certain information is imparted to a partner dissolving the relationship is the highest risk.

Works Cited

Griffin, Em. A First Look at Communication. McGraw Hill. New York, NY. 2011. Book.

Stages http://changingminds.org/explanations/theories/social_penetration.htm

Bloggers http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3353741/

Psychcentral.com Samuel Lopez de Victoria

http://www.businessballs.com/johariwindowmodel.htm