Which of the following is true about appropriate self-disclosure in social psychology?

• A. It should be avoided entirely to maintain privacy in all social interactions.
• B. It is most effective when used to manipulate others' perceptions.
• C. It involves sharing personal information gradually and in a manner that matches the level of intimacy in the relationship.
• D. It requires revealing all personal details immediately to establish trust.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of self-disclosure in social psychology, which refers to the process of revealing personal information to others.
2. Recognize that appropriate self-disclosure is about balancing openness with privacy, ensuring that information shared matches the context and relationship.
3. Evaluate each option by comparing it to the principles of healthy self-disclosure: it should not be avoided entirely, nor used manipulatively, nor involve immediate full disclosure.
4. Identify that effective self-disclosure typically happens gradually and corresponds to the level of intimacy in the relationship, fostering trust over time.
5. Conclude that the statement 'It involves sharing personal information gradually and in a manner that matches the level of intimacy in the relationship' aligns best with psychological understanding of appropriate self-disclosure.