View Resources by Theory

Change to View by Type

Social Penetration Theory

Irwin Altman & Dalmas Taylor

Chapter 9
Interpersonal Communication—Relationship Development

Print Print content only |

Theory Overview

Abstracts appear in Appendix A of the 7th Edition

Interpersonal closeness proceeds in a gradual and orderly fashion from superficial to intimate levels of exchange as a function of anticipated present and future outcomes. Lasting intimacy requires continual and mutual vulnerability through breadth and depth of self-disclosure. (Socio-psychological tradition)

Hint: In addition to the alphabetical drop-down list above, you can also use the Table of Contents for the 7th edition to select a chapter or section of the book, or the Theory List for a listing by author.