What Is Self-Disclosure?
What does self-disclosure mean?
Sharing information about yourself when talking to others
Sharing your favorite color
Safe — this is public information.
What are the three levels of sharing?
Public, Personal, and Private.
What does oversharing mean?
Telling too much personal or private information.
You meet someone new at work. What is some information that is okay to share?
Public info, like your name, job role, or a hobby (“I like watching movies.”).
Why do people share about themselves to others?
To help others get to know them, build connections, and make friends.
Sharing your address
Not safe — that’s private information.
Give one example of public information
Your favorite movie, food, or hobby.
What does undersharing mean?
Not giving enough information for a real conversation.
You're talking to your boss. What is NOT okay to share?
Private details about your personal life (like money problems or health issues).
What happens when you share too much?
It can make others uncomfortable or put your private information at risk.
Sharing your feelings with a friend
Safe if you trust the friend — that’s personal information.
Give one example of personal information
Your feelings, family relationships, or goals.
Why is balance important?
It helps others feel comfortable and makes conversations go smoothly.
A friend tells you something private, should you share it?
No — respect their privacy and keep it to yourself.
What happens when you share too little?
It can make conversations hard or make people think you don’t want to connect.
Sharing your password
Not safe — private information that should never be shared.
Give one example of private information
Passwords, Social Security number, or health records.
Give an example of oversharing
“Hi, I’m Sam. I just broke up with my partner and I’m really upset.” (too personal for a new person).
What can you do if you overshare?
You can change the topic or say, “That was a little personal—sorry, let’s talk about something else.”
Give one example of balanced sharing
There is more than one correct answer. But here is a good example: “I like to play video games in my free time. What about you?” — shares a little, invites the other person to talk too.
Sharing your bank information
Not safe — this is private information that should only be shared with trusted professionals (like your bank).
Why is it important to know the difference between the three?
It helps you stay safe, protect privacy, and share the right amount with the right people.
Give an example of undersharing
Only saying “Hi” and nothing else — no way for the other person to connect.
How can self disclosure help you make friends?
Sharing the right amount helps others learn about you, find common interests, and build trust.