Motivational differences and similarities between concealment and disclosure processes

Abstract

Self-concealment and self-disclosure may initially appear as the opposite sides of the same coin. Although these two constructs are related, they involve different cognitive and motivational processes. This article briefly reviews the recent literature and discusses the differences and similarities between concealment and disclosure in terms of motivational processes. An emphasis is given on self-determination theory and basic psychological needs. Future directions involve a refinement on whether concealment and disclosure differ in terms of basic need satisfaction and frustration, examining the role of self-determined and controlled motivation in secrecy, and whether self-disclosure also involves cognitively intrusive mental processes.