Discussion:
Cultural Differences in Self-Disclosure
Barnlund (1975) argues that people in some culture do not hesitate to open themselves by sharing their ideas and opinions in public; however, people in some other cultures prefer not to talk much about themselves in public. According to Barnlund, people who belong to the former case have a larger part of "public self" and a smaller part of "private self." On the other hand, people who belong to the latter case have a smaller part of "public self" and a larger part of "private self." Which category do you think you belong to?
If you are in a situation where you are talking with someone whose tendency of self-disclosure is different from yours, how do you feel? Discuss the challenges that can exist in regards to cultural differences and self-disclosure. Include a minimum of one scholarly source to support your views.
Reference
Barnlund, D. C. (1975). Public and private self in Japan and the U.S. Tokyo: Simul Press.