ABSTRACT

There is a double-edged sword associated with the disclosure of personal information to others. Self-disclosure may provide psychological and concrete benefits, such as access to social support, the growth of personal relationships, and useful information and advice in coping with one’s difficulties. However, there are also risks associated with revealing personal information. If others know personal information about an individual, there is the possibility of being rejected and exploited by others, or the disclosure may cause others distress (Derlega et al., 1993).