A Distinct Association: Inclusion of Other in the Self and Self-Disclosure

The current study examined the relationship between inclusion of other in the self (a theoretically distinct conceptualization of relationship closeness) and self-disclosure. These constructs were also examined in association with relationship outcomes of satisfaction and commitment. Analysis of the data indicated that inclusion of other in the self and self-disclosure in a relationship were each significantly positively correlated with both relationship satisfaction and commitment. However, there was no significant correlation between inclusion of other in the self and self-disclosure. Further analysis of the data revealed that self-disclosure moderated the relationship between inclusion of other in the self and relationship commitment. Implications for understanding inclusion of other in the self as a distinct theoretical perspective of relationship closeness are discussed.