Which phenomenon is considered one of the strongest indicators of trust within a group, referring to revealing personal information previously unknown to the group?

• A. Empathizing
• B. Universality
• C. Self disclosure
• D. Supporting

Answer: (C)

Self-disclosure is sharing personal information, thoughts, or feelings that others in the group wouldn’t already know. In a group setting, trust grows when people feel safe enough to reveal private aspects of themselves, signaling willingness to be vulnerable. That kind of openness invites validation and support from others, reinforcing safety, closeness, and cohesion within the group. While empathizing, universality, and supporting are important group processes, they don’t require the same personal risk or demonstrate trust more directly than the act of revealing something previously hidden.