Sociology is a subject which deals with human and deeply studies their activities and behavior. Many economists and sociologists have worked to find out the facts under this subject. The Social Penetration Theory explains how the relationships between two persons use with time and how they come closer with each other even at each stage of time. This theory was introduced by Altman and Taylor, which gave the primary initiative of the relation and closeness, which develops between two persons and how two unknown people become known. The Social Penetration Theory breaks down that the links started, including Penetration after some time.

Research method

For conducting the research work to complete this paper on Social Penetration Theory, most work has been done through the internet, and some of the resources have been gathered from the library through some journals.

The Social Penetration Theory and Personalities

This theory explains the two personalities, which might be the opposite in characters but have a healthy relationship or friendship. Their approach shows an understanding of the complexity of relationships and relationship development that occurs over time.

An Onion Metaphor

Social Penetration Theory uses an onion metaphor to explain the personalities. According to this theory, human nature is multilayered like an onion. The first or outer layer is one’s public domain, which he uses to show others. It works on facts, but the inner layer is one’s domain in which he keeps his relationships, feelings, emotions, and attitudes. The Penetration is included in the private part of one.

Penetration Stages

According to the Social Penetration Theory, Penetration has five stages. Each of these stages works differently.
Orientation stageExploratory affective stageAffective stageStable stageDE penetration

Penetration starts with small attraction and straightforward communication. We start coming closer by revealing ourselves, personal and private things get shared, and the relationship becomes closer, a saturation level reached in the relationship, and finally the break down start which lead the relationship to termination.