Discuss the social penetration theory, including primary considerations of the theory. Then provide an example of how the theory could be applied to an interpersonal relationship

What will be an ideal response?

Social penetration theory is based on the premise that communication, specifically self-disclosure, is essential to relationship development. The two primary dimensions of social penetration theory include breadth, or the number of topics a dyad is willing to discuss, and depth, or how profound or personal the communication exchanges are. When relationships are initiated, the breadth and depth of topics is relatively limited. However, as relationships continue, the frequency of self-disclosures often increases, signaling more intimacy with greater topic breadth and depth.

On the other hand, if relationships have considerable depth and breadth in communication and then that breadth and depth is reduced, the relationship moves from being more intimate to less intimate and might signal relational dissolution.

When I first met my friend, we sat near each other in class and talked about things that happened in class. As the semester continued, we increased our communication breadth by talking about events at school and in the news. Toward the end of the class, we started meeting outside of class and sharing more personal information about our background, likes, and dislikes. Over time we have kept in close contact and shared in many experiences good and bad. We are so close now that in many respects I consider her like a sister.