Too much information or not enough? How self-disclosure in online dating profiles influences attraction and relationship intentions
摘要
Prior research shows that self-disclosure fosters trust and attraction in online interactions, yet its impact on perceived relationship intentions (interest in casual sex and long-term relationships), a key factor in dating decisions, remains understudied. Through three studies, we examined how self-disclosure in online dating profiles influences perceived and expressed relationship intentions. Specifically, unpartnered participants evaluated profiles with varying degrees of self-disclosure, rating profile owners’ attractiveness and relationship intentions alongside their own. Study 1 revealed that moderate self-disclosure optimally attracts potential partners, while Study 2 found that perceptions of the profile owner’s interest in long-term relationships mediated this effect. Study 3 demonstrated that stated relationship goals moderated self-disclosure’s effects: while greater self-disclosure consistently enhanced perceived and expressed interest in long-term relationships, this effect was amplified when profiles indicated short-term intentions. These findings suggest that self-disclosure serves as a relationship intention signal, shaping not only how profile owners are perceived but also the types of relationships viewers seek to pursue.