Reference no: EM131514084

Self-Disclosure and "Connecting" With Others Online

Discussion Title

Self-disclosure is a crucial element of building trust and becoming close to others. However, do we gain the same benefits when we do so online? In this assignment, you will first watch this lecture by Psychologist Sherry Turkle:Connected, but alone?

Then, you will relate some key points from that video to what Bevan and Sole (2014), had to say about the importance of self-disclosure in relationship formation and psychological health discussed in Chapter 7. You will discuss the importance of disclosing information and some of the general concerns Turkle raises about being both "connected" and "isolated" in our computer-mediated communication.

Prepare: To prepare for this discussion post, you must do the following:

• Watch the video Connected, but alone.

• Read Chapter 7 in the course text. Focus especially on section 7.4.

• Based on what you've learned in these readings and videos, consider the importance self-disclosure in connecting with others and psychological health.

• Read the writing prompt below in its entirety. Notice that there are three tasks to complete:

o Define self-disclosure and explain its importance.
o Think about how computer mediated communication has influenced patterns of self-disclosure and connecting with others.
o Make connections between the themes of computer-mediated communication (CMC), isolation, and psychological health.

Reflect: Take time to reflect on the role of self-disclosure in the formation and sustenance of relationships. Consider when it is appropriate and how this can change over time or in various contexts.

Write: Based on what you have learned in Chapter 7 of Bevan and Sole (2014) and the video by Sherry Turkle (2012), address the following:

• What is self-disclosure and how does it allow us to form bonds with others and become more self-aware?

• How has computer-mediated communication (and social media specifically) influenced patterns of self-disclosure and connecting with others?

• Why is self-disclosure and "connecting" with others important in psychological health?

Thoroughly address all three elements of this prompt by writing at least two to three sentences on each element. Use the course readings at least once to help you make your points. Consider copying and pasting these tasks into a word file and addressing each of them separately.

Your initial response should be 200 to 300 words in length.