The Role of Self-Disclosure and Secrecy in Adolescent–Parent Relationships

Abstract

This chapter examines the role of self-disclosure and secrecy in adolescent–parent relationships from a social perspective, highlighting their importance in monitoring and regulating relationship quality and closeness. Although adolescent–parent relationships share characteristics with other close relationships, they also differ. Both these similarities and differences have implications for the dynamics of self-disclosure and secrecy. A distinction is made between intimate self-disclosure and routine disclosure – the daily details of life – both of which play a critical role in these dynamics. The chapter conceptualizes the adolescent–parent relationship, examines the nature of self-disclosure and secrecy, and explores their interrelations within adolescent–parent relationships. It also considers the variability of self-disclosure as influenced by social norms and cultural background. The chapter concludes with a discussion of future research directions, particularly in the context of evolving communication technologies, and their implications for understanding the dynamics of self-disclosure and secrecy between adolescents and their parents.