In the past, the view of our identity has been that individuality comes first, and then we interact to form social groups. Many of the readings in Chapter 3 of BRIDGES NOT WALLS present a different view. Define identity and discuss how communication builds identity addresses self expression and self disclosure in communication. Authors discuss the uses of I-statements and you-statements, and the paradoxical power of vulnerability. They also introduce guidelines for more effective self-expression. This topic concludes with an essay which argues that open honest communication may, in certain situations, do more harm than good. Subsequent readings explore different expressive styles, and particularly gender differences