Managing information following hurtful experiences: How personal network members negotiate private information

Abstract

The present study explores how personal network members manage information related to hurtful experiences. The study uses communication privacy management (CPM) theory as the theoretical framework for a theme analysis of responses of disclosers of hurtful experiences and confidants regarding how they manage information related to a hurtful experience. Results of the thematic analysis provide insight into the process by which people disclose a hurtful experience with a personal network member, establish rules for sharing information, manage privacy boundaries, and deal with privacy turbulence. Findings illuminate the unique challenges and circumstances present in the context of hurtful experiences. The implications for coping with a hurtful experience and extending CPM theory are discussed.