Overshared: meaning, definitions and examples

Psychology

• Humans share personal information to build connections, but sharing too much can lead to social discomfort.
• Oversharing might happen due to a need for validation or an urge to connect quickly with others.
• What feels normal for one person can be too much for another, leading to misunderstandings in relationships.

Social Media

• In the age of social media, oversharing has increased, with users often posting intimate details of their lives online.
• Studies indicate that oversharing on platforms can attract both support and negative attention, affecting mental health.
• The term ‘TMI’ (Too Much Information) is commonly used to describe oversharing moments online.

Cultural Context

• Different cultures have varying standards on what constitutes oversharing; some may be more open, while others value privacy.
• In many Western cultures, casual conversations often include some degree of personal disclosure, which can tip into oversharing.
• Oversharing is often viewed negatively in professional settings, where maintaining boundaries is important.

Communication Skills

• Effective communication entails knowing when and how much to share, helping to avoid oversharing.
• Practicing active listening can help individuals gauge appropriate levels of sharing based on others' responses.
• Awareness of personal comfort levels and those of others can improve interactions and reduce instances of oversharing.

Media Representation

• Television series often portray characters who overshare as comedic relief, highlighting the awkwardness that ensues.
• In films, situations involving oversharing lead to misunderstandings, often driving the plot or generating humor.
• Reality TV has popularized the trend of oversharing, with participants revealing personal details for public scrutiny.