The theory of social penetration is at the basis of every formation of a new relationship. This theory is an interaction between persons who slowly learn about each other at first formally and then informally. Social penetration is defined as revealing ones self to others, this process is cautious and slow and some are more cautious then others.

In order to find out more about a person you must slowly gain their trust and equally reveal information about yourself. Altman and Taylor refer to this theory as an onion with many layers. Slowly we begin to peel away and understand more and more about the person as the chose to reveal them. However as a person reveals these layers we become more vulnerable to that person we tell them to. These layers are only accessible once the person reveals them self, any other way could destroy the possibility of a relationship.

An interesting point is that once the layers are revealed and you learn more about a person it is acceptable to talk about something already revealed. This is how people establish a relationship when they can establish a form of trust and understanding about one another. Which therefore allows each ot

Functional Perspective on Group Decision Making: Randy Hirokawa and Dennis Gouran

After this step we would consider any other alternatives. Perhaps we would maybe order pizza or go to get some fast food at Trax. Then after we make our decision to still go to the dining hall we could evaluate the positives and negatives of the situation. Usually the positives outweigh the negatives in that we all ate diner and went together. This is how I use this theory simply in my everyday life here at Brockport.

The first function is analysis of the problem. The group has to identify what is wrong or what needs changing in the interest of the group. Hirokawa warns that their must be recognition of any threat to the group in order to maintain the status quo, everyone must be aware of any apparent threatening events.

This theory is present in almost every decision group make together. Groups like families use this to make plans for vacations and other trips. Groups constantly make decisions for themselves and usually attempt to make the right ones. Hirokawa and Gouran give a strong interpretation of decision making in that they make it more complicated than it really is but they do recognize how important it is to daily activity.

her to communicate on a personal level.

In order for groups to make decisions they usually go through a process that will satisfy in the entirety of the group. Four specific functions come into play when making a decision for the group. These functions are basic in their identity and purpose for the outcome of the group.

The fourth function is Evaluation of positive and negative characteristics. This is a process of determining which alternative the group is going to use to make their decision. Sometimes the groups have to be reminded of their task for it is sometimes forgotten. After all of these functions are considered and analyzed the group can make their decision.

Some common words found in the essay are:
Social Penetration, Altman Taylor, Identification Alternatives, Narrative Paradigm, Dennis Gouran, Dalmas Taylor, Hirokawa Gouran, social penetration, Walter Fisher, narrative paradigm, telling stories, goal setting, personal person, stories hear, person reveals, walter fisher,
Approximate Word count = 1378
Approximate Pages = 6 (250 words per page double spaced)