What is self-expansion theory?

• A. A theory about expanding sexual desires.
• B. A hypothesis about growth in relationships through commitment.
• C. The idea that humans have a fundamental need to grow and expand the self over time.
• D. A model for expanding social circles.

Answer: (C)

Self-expansion theory holds that humans have a fundamental drive to grow and widen the self over time. We satisfy this by incorporating new experiences, traits, identities, and important others into our self-concept. In relationships, this often plays out as partners engaging in novel activities together and letting aspects of the partner become part of our own sense of self, which adds resources and perspectives and tends to increase closeness and satisfaction. It’s about broad, ongoing growth of the self rather than focusing narrowly on sexual desires, commitment alone, or simply expanding social circles.