Which term refers to the act of sharing oneself in a sincere and open manner?

The term that best refers to the act of sharing oneself in a sincere and open manner is authenticity. Authenticity involves being true to oneself and expressing genuine thoughts, feelings, and beliefs without pretense. When someone is authentic, they are not only open about their own experiences but also invite others to see them as they truly are, creating a space for honest interactions.

Authenticity plays a crucial role in building trust and rapport in social work practice, as it allows clients to feel valued and understood. Clients are more likely to engage in meaningful dialogue when they perceive social workers as authentic and relatable.

While transparency suggests an openness about one's processes or motivations, it does not necessarily encompass the deeper emotional sharing associated with authenticity. Vulnerability involves the willingness to expose one's weaknesses or uncertainties, which can be a component of authenticity but doesn't fully capture the idea of presenting oneself sincerely. Openness is a broader term that includes willingness to share, but it doesn't emphasize the genuine and true-to-self aspect that authenticity embodies.