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MENTAL MODEL · M3058

Social Penetration Theory

Social Penetration Theory
BehaviorHigh supportSocial Psychology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

Altman and Taylor proposed that the development of interpersonal relationships is like "peeling an onion," moving from superficial public information (breadth) to deeper private personal information (depth).

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

Relationship depth management. It guides us on how to build trust or maintain distance by controlling the pace and depth of "self-disclosure." In negotiations and social interactions, it prevents "saying too much too soon."

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Anchor fast decisions

Relationships expand bidirectionally through the breadth (range of topics) and depth (level of intimacy) of "self-disclosure," progressing from the outer layers inward. Disclosure follows the principle of reciprocity: one party's moderate openness prompts the other to open up correspondingly, thereby accumulating trust. Too fast a pace (saying too much too soon) or too slow (excessive defensiveness) can disrupt relationship development.

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_penetration_theoryZH · Explicit
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