Article Critique: Self-Disclosure, Gender, and Communication - Coursework Example

Can We Talk? The article, “Can we talk?”, focuses on how couples may strengthen their relationship through effective communication. Self-disclosure forms a major part of this communication process whereby spouses disclose their darkest secrets, inner most feelings, regrets and fears with each other. This self-disclosure opens any boundaries that may hinder the relationship from flourishing. The self-disclosure and communication may be highly related to each other in forming and building stronger relationship as communication provides a way of understanding each other.

It helps in gaining trust on each other and has intimate feelings. I personally believe that my relationship was developed and built stronger by practicing the self-disclosure which aided in gaining trust and mutual understanding. My fear of losing my spouse was reduced by discussing the matter and my spouse’s move to give me more time and value enhanced our belief in each other.Self-disclosure aids in getting rid of any misunderstanding or unanswered expectations which lead to disruptions in the relationships.

Hence, self-disclosure gives an opportunity to discuss and disclose what each spouse expects of the other in certain circumstances. Meeting each other’s expectation then leads to a more satisfying relationship. There are certain differences in communication styles of both genders. Men tend to be direct in their communication whereas, women expect men to understand their needs and expectations by certain unspoken feelings and actions. However, both genders try to convey their message somehow.

At time verbal mediums are used by both genders like discussions, either with a harsh or soft tone, or at other times their body movement, facial expressions and other non verbal features aid in expressing their feelings. Keeping these in view, I believe that I fit into my relevant gender’s generalizations.