Young Adults’ Perceptions of Online Self-Disclosure

Online communication has become the primary instrument utilised by many individuals to maintain and form relationships, and self-disclosure plays an important role in the formation of close relationships online. An extensive amount of research has investigated the experiences of adolescents online. However, available knowledge about the influence of social media on young adults within the South African context is limited. Consequently, exploring young adults’ perceptions of online self-disclosure becomes more relevant. The aim of this study was to explore and describe young adults’ perceptions of online self-disclosure, specifically exploring what young adults’ self-disclose online and what psychosocial factors impact thereupon. The present study utilised a qualitative approach and was exploratory and descriptive in design. The sample size of the present study was 13, and semi-structured interviews were utilised as the method of data collection. The data obtained was analysed using thematic analysis and six main themes were identified. This article highlights one of those themes, namely Online Self-disclosure, focusing specifically on the psychosocial factors impacting upon online self-disclosure.