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Social Penetration Theory: Cuts to the Heart
Topical Application Paper
CATA 230: Introduction to Communication Studies
Social_Penetration_Theory.pdf
Altman and Taylor's Social Penetration Theory suggests that individuals have layers of self-identity that they reveal in varying depths to others, based on the type of relationship. Thus, only our closest friends and family penetrate our outer layers and experience a relationship with us at an intimate level. In this application paper, I argue that the theory is logical, helping me to make sense of past behaviors and interpret future ones.
This paper gives a bit of insight into how relationships develop over time through communication. I apply Altman and Taylor's theory to various relationships that exist in my life, and I talk about how it measures up to predicting and interpreting my actions. Overall, I feel that this piece uses some good, personal examples to make its point, but it is lacking in length and support. The thesis, too, is somewhat weak. While I recall that this paper was assigned as an application paper (not a research paper), I still feel that if I were to do it over again, I would take a firm stand with the thesis, add scholarly support, and describe the theory in detail. Even with its shortcomings, I think that this paper (and more importantly, this theory) shows how relationships can change and develop due to social interaction. I can say that I have a firm grasp on the theory's concepts, and I find that knowledge invaluable.
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