HOW SELF-DISCLOSURE FACTORS AFFECT INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS AND CHURCH GROWTH: THE STUDY OF PASTORS AND CONGREGANTS OF CITAM VALLEY ROAD

Abstract

Purpose: Interpersonal relationships form a basis for growth in any given social gathering. This entire project is an investigation on how self-disclosure affects interpersonal relationships as a tool for church growth, focusing on members of the congregation and their pastors in CITAM Valley Road. Self-disclosure, which is generally perceived to lead to broken relationships if not well governed within the spheres of a healthy relationship, is unavoidable in any interpersonal relationship. How then does self-disclosure in interpersonal relationships between a pastor and members of the congregation affect church growth? Methodology: The data was collected through guided face-to-face questionnaires and interviews where it is proved that self-disclosure affects interpersonal relationships which in turn affect church’s numerical growth. The researcher focused on qualitative research. The researcher carried out the research at CITAM Valley Road church. The researcher used purposive sampling. The sampling was done across all the departments to ensure the population was represented effectively. The basic or primary data was gathered using the survey questionnaires, given to the CITAM Valley road congregation members. The data collected through the survey questionnaires and interviews was analyzed qualitatively in line with this study's objectives. Data collected from the interviews was analyzed thematically and presented in the form of Brief discussions that were also made on the same while highlighting essential responses. Findings: The research found out that congregants to a greater extend attend the church only if they have a stronger and healthier interpersonal relationships with their pastors. Pastors also enjoy serving in congregations where they have developed healthy interpersonal relationships. These relationships are greatly affected by self-disclosure. Unique Contribution to Practice and Policy: Therefore, this study proposes intentional development and nurture of healthy interpersonal relationships through self-disclosure between pastors and congregants, as an effective tool for church growth, and especially to church planters and missionaries. The study recommends structures in the church to help congregants have healthy relationships with their pastors so that they are able to self-disclose without fear.