We begin to engage with the listening process long before we engage in any recognizable verbal or nonverbal communication. It is only after listening for months as infants that we begin to consciously practice our own forms of expression. In this module, we will learn more about each stage of the listening process, the main types of listening, and the main listening styles. What is self-disclosure? It could be argued that any verbal or nonverbal communication reveals something about the self. The clothes we wear, a laugh, or an order at the drive-through may offer glimpses into our personality or past, but they are not necessarily self-disclosure. Self-disclosure is the purposeful disclosure of personal information to another person. When self-disclosure works out well, it can have positive effects on interpersonal relationships. Conversely, self-disclosure that does not work out well can lead to embarrassment, lower self-esteem, and relationship deterioration or even termination. As with all other types of communication, increasing your competence regarding self-disclosure can have many positive effects. You will be exploring self-disclosure in relationships. Be sure to use examples to support your responses. Now that you have read about types of relationships and how disclosing information may impact those relations, respond to the following question. Refer back to your reading to help support your responses. How does self-disclosure affect relationships? Consider the positive and negative.

a) It fosters trust and intimacy while promoting deeper connections.
b) It can lead to increased understanding and empathy between individuals.
c) It may strengthen bonds and create a sense of closeness.
d) It can also result in vulnerability and potential conflict if not reciprocated or handled sensitively.