Recent discoveries emphasize the complexities of self-disclosure in professional settings

Is it advisable to divulge personal details with colleagues, or should discussions remain entirely formal?

As indicated by fresh investigations from the University of Michigan, the response relies on the nature of the information shared, the reasons behind it, as well as the reactions of colleagues.

The publication in Emotion reveals that self-disclosure in a professional environment can significantly influence employees’ emotional health, energy levels, and sense of affiliation; however, not all disclosures yield the same effects.

“Individuals spend considerable time conversing with colleagues, yet we know surprisingly little about how these discussions impact their internal experiences,” asserted Elizabeth Trinh, a primary author of the study and a doctoral candidate in management and organizations at the Ross School of Business. “Our results indicate that sharing in the workplace can serve as a substantial source of connection and vitality—but it may also have adverse effects.”

The analysis is based on data from two extensive experience sampling investigations carried out in 2021 and 2023, involving over 350 working adults in the U.S. and generating 26,324 data entries. Participants detailed their workplace discussions, including the content shared, the motivations behind sharing it, reactions of others, and their emotional state afterward.

The results are definitive: Sharing positive personal information at work correlated with enhanced emotional health, elevated work energy, stronger feelings of connection, and reduced levels of rumination (pondering over negative thoughts).

Crucially, the motivations behind sharing were significant.

“Sharing with the intent to connect was consistently associated with improved outcomes,” Trinh remarked. “Conversely, sharing to release frustration, despite the widespread belief that venting is therapeutic, actually led to poorer outcomes, including heightened rumination and decreased well-being.”

The research also highlighted the importance of listener reactions. When the response aligned with the sharer’s intention (for instance, providing emotional support in reaction to an emotional disclosure), employees reported elevated mood and connectivity. However, mismatched responses, particularly when listeners offered less support than anticipated, were linked to diminished well-being and increased rumination.

“These mismatches occurred about half the time,” noted co-lead author Kathryn Schertz, a postdoctoral research associate in psychology.

Another crucial takeaway: Sharing with colleagues, rather than friends or family, was particularly effective in enhancing work-related energy and connection.

These discussions were more prevalent during in-office days, underscoring the social importance of physical presence in the workplace. Meaningful interactions among colleagues not only foster feelings of connection but also enhance overall performance.

The study was co-authored by Ethan Kross, a professor of psychology and management and organizations at U-M.