Secrecy

Consequences of Keeping Secrets

The consequences of secrecy appear ambiguous in the existing literature. In studies of both clinical and normal samples, the act of keeping secrets has been linked to negative well-being. These effects may manifest themselves psychologically (for example, stress, anxiety, depression) or physically (e.g., bodily symptoms, illness). Researchers have proposed several models as possible explanations for this connection. For instance, inhibiting thoughts or being preoccupied by thoughts about the secret involve continuous mental effort and prevent a secretkeeper from escaping the secret. Not sharing a secret may also rob a person of the opportunity to receive the support needed to cope with the problem.

Some studies found that people who are keeping serious secrets are also more likely to overestimate physical burdens, such as expecting physical tasks to require more effort or offering others less assistance with physical work. Additional research has found improvements in the health of secret-keepers after a secret is disclosed. However, other research suggests that poor outcomes result only when a secret is serious and that secrecy may not always be detrimental. It may protect others from information they do not need to know, and it may be a way for individuals to maintain independence and their own sense of identity.

Secrecy may also damage relationships. When secret-keepers are not forthcoming with information, the people around them may feel alienated or rejected. They may also trust the secret-keeper less if they suspect or know that the secret-keeping is hiding something. Based on longitudinal research studies, secrecy may lead to less closeness, satisfaction, and commitment in personal relationships. However, avoiding topics that are points of contention or sources of negative emotion can also be a way of maintaining peace in a relationship.

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