Social penetration theory

Social penetration theory (SPT) proposes that interpersonal communication develops from shallow, non-intimate exchange toward deeper intimacy as relationships grow. Formulated in 1973 by psychologists Irwin Altman and Dalmas Taylor, it uses an onion metaphor for revealing deeper parts of oneself. The theory describes relationship development through increasing breadth and depth of self-disclosure, and also examines de-penetration, in which relationships regress and may end.

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Formulated by

Irwin Altman and Dalmas Taylor

Core process

Increasing breadth and depth of self-disclosure

Metaphor

An onion revealing deeper layers