Table of ContentsIntroductionApplying Self-Disclosure in CommunicationConclusionReferencesIntroductionWhere would our relationships with colleagues be without good communication? Communication in the workplace is very important considering the amount of time we spend with our colleagues. According to our book, “social penetration theory is reciprocity with similar levels or “risks” that lead to increased intimacy between two people” (Lynn H. Turner, Richard L. West, 2018, p. 174) . This theory can take a relationship from casual to very intimate. Social penetration theory explains the importance of self-disclosure in a relationship. Self-disclosure is revealing aspects of your life. Self-disclosure will eventually develop a relationship, but it is ultimately a decision, you choose what to disclose and when to do it. Furthermore, the theory of social penetration can be described as the “onion theory”. This means that we have layers and as people get to know each other, they lose layers. Usually the relationship starts slowly and the layers continue to peel away over time, which is when self-disclosure comes into place. Self-disclosure is the focal point of developing a close relationship. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an Original Essay Applying Self-Disclosure in Communication When two individuals first meet, they begin slowly by getting to know each other. They usually talk about where they're from, where they've worked, and their hobbies. At this stage, you decide whether this person is someone to whom you wish to disclose your information. The onion begins to unravel as you get to know this particular individual. Much of this theory concerns the rewards and costs resulting from the interaction of others. I can apply this theory with my former colleague Karissa. I applied to work at a retail store and got the job on the spot. I was very nervous about meeting my new colleagues and worried that I wouldn't be able to communicate with them the same way I couldn't communicate with my old colleagues. The first person I really got to talk to was Karissa. I remember I was very quiet during the first week, then during the second week Karissa started talking to me. We talked about where we're from and previous jobs we've had. A little chat, you might say. I felt a little more comfortable with Karissa and decided to continue getting to know her. In social penetration theory, as communication continues, non-intimate levels become deeper. This is what was happening with the new relationship I had with Karissa. As the layers fell, we grew closer. Now we were talking about our family members, our hobbies and our boyfriends. Our relationship goes from casual to very intimate when we finally talk about our mental health and anxiety issues. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Conclusion Our book includes an example where Lana told her roommate that she couldn't afford school, Rachael revealed that if her father hadn't taken out a loan, she wouldn't have couldn't pay for school either. This experience brought them closer together. This happened the same way to Karissa and me.