Self-disclosure of Indonesian and Malaysian communities regarding COVID-19: A multicultural study

Abstract

AbstractThis study aims to determine to what extent adult Indonesians and Malaysians self-disclose COVID-19 related information during the pandemic. Using an online survey, the study obtained quantitative data in understanding the five dimensions of self-disclosure—amount, valency, accuracy, intention, and intimacy as suggested by Devito. Using descriptive statistics and analysis (mean scores, percentages, and frequencies), the findings demonstrate the patterns and behaviours of Indonesians and Malaysians in self-disclosing COVID-19 related information against the demographic background of respondents’ academic qualification, gender, employment, education, ethnicity, and age. Findings indicate that, generally, Malaysians are more open than the Indonesian when it comes to disclosing sensitive information during the pandemic. Several unique findings seem to indicate the potential of a new understanding of self-disclosure, as well as of altering theories in this field. Nevertheless, more studies are needed before making a strong claim on theorizing of a new way of framing self-disclosure.

Keywords

• self-disclosure
• Covid-19
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• multicultural