Social Penetration Theory

Social Penetration Theory

SOCIAL PENETRATION THEORY
THE THEORY
The Social Penetration Theory espouses that what transpires in a relationship enables the communication and interaction between two persons to progress from the very general to the very special level aspect of their beings.   The process includes “verbal exchange, nonverbal use of the body, use of the physical environment, and interpersonal perceptions – all of which are exhibited at different levels of intimacy of encounter.”   (Altman & Taylor, 1973, p.3)
Involved in the concept of the Social Penetration Theory is the aspect of communication between individuals.   It is the tool that fuels relationships.   The growth, stagnation or deterioration of relationships going through the layers described by the Social Penetration Theory is anchored on communication.   “In the past two decades……..people [have been advised] on myriad of ways to get along better, be assertive, think well of themselves and enrich their lives through communication.”   (Heath, 2001)
THE MEANING
The theory means that the gradual revelation of two persons in a relationship will progress up to the intimate, confident and comfortable levels because “the more time we spend with others, the more likely we are to self-disclose more intimate thoughts and details of our life.”   (Interpersonal Context, 2001).  
As the stages of revealing oneself develop between two persons, the more they become open, honest and sincere with each other.   The condition of achieving the peak of disclosure is based on the free decision or choice of the persons involved in the interaction.   Each individual will choose the time, the method, the manner, the style, the words when, how and where to reveal himself or herself.  
The Social Penetration Theory established the foreseeable pattern of relationship development in accordance with the stages of self-disclosure.   In assuming an exchange process and cost-reward model, the theory rationalizes that interactions and...