Priuacy Functions
Within the preceding conceptual framework, privacy serves three functions: (a) management of social interaction, (b) establishment of plans and strategies for interacting with others, and (c) development and maintenance of self-identity. With regard to self-identity, several writers (Proshansky, Ittelson, & Rivlin, 1970; Westin, 1967) described privacy as related to personal autonomy, identity, and self-esteem. Within the proposed framework, the issue centers around the ability of a person or a group to satisfactorily regulate contact with others. A person who can successfully control interaction with others is likely to develop more of a sense of competence and self-worth than a person who fails repeatedly to regulate contacts with others. As I have stated previously: