For Altman, there are multiple behavioral mechanisms for regulating privacy
(e.g., territorial behavior, cultural norms) that operate as a coherent system. Consequently,
one mechanism can substitute for another (e.g., a nod of approval for the
word “yes”), can amplify another (e.g., shout “no” and slam a door shut), or
can modulate another (e.g., offer an apology for locking one’s door). Moreover,
Altman posits a hierarchy of privacy functions, the most central of which is creating
self-identity.