ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the authors discuss how and why they engage in interpersonal relationships and explore some guidelines for building and enhancing satisfying relationships. Interpersonal communication occurs when people relate to each other as unique individuals—no formal roles are involved, just direct, person-to-person communication. By contrast, in impersonal communication, the people involved relate to each other only as the occupiers of the roles or positions they hold. A moderate amount of disclosure is recommended in most relationships and usually produces more satisfaction. Some cultures are categorized as “open” cultures because the people in those cultures favor talking openly and candidly about self, even when the subject of discussion is highly personal. Men and women differ in both the amount and the types of self-disclosure with which they feel comfortable in everyday interaction. The most obvious technology that relates to disclosure and interpersonal relationships is use of the Internet and CMC.
