Modification of self-disclosing behaviours through modeling and vicarious reinforcement

Modeling techniques were used to model moderate disclosure to high and low disclosers. Eighty female undergraduates (40 low disclosers and 40 high disclosers) listened to a model select items that were rated as moderate disclosures for discussion. Two modeling conditions were employed; in one condition the model was reinforced by the E (vicarious reinforcement), in the second condition the model was not reinforced. Two control conditions, one with the model present, the other with the model absent were also included. The results of two separate 2 X 4 X 2 repeated measures, hierarchical analyses of variance on the subject distance from modeled intimacy, and the number of moderate items selected on pre- and posttests, indicated that both modeling conditions were successful in producing moderation of self-disclosure.