L5 - Social Exchange Theory

Question 1

What kind of theory is this and what is it based on?

Answer 1

• Economic theory of romantic relationships
• Based of relationships are like a business, where we monitor the rewards and costs
• Individuals focus on getting out more than they put in

Question 2

What does the theory assume?

Answer 2

• Those who offer rewards are attractive
• Those who are perceived to involve great costs are less attractive
• Relationships that are mutually beneficial will succeed, but those that are imbalanced will fail

Question 3

What do we compare our relationship to?

Answer 3

• Previous relationships (comparison level)
• With people around us who we could potentially have a relationship with. (Comparison level for alternatives)
• Looking for a better deal if current relationship is not satisfactory

Question 4

Evaluation (+)

Answer 4

(+) Evidence supporting this theory says individuals in successful marriages report a lack of positive behaviour exchanges, and an excess of negative behaviour exchanges. The happy couple ratio is 5:1, but for unsuccessful marriages it is 1:1
(+) Practical applications - Integrated couples therapy helps partners break negative patterns of behaviours and to decrease negative exchanges + increase positive exchanges. 66% of couples reported significant improvements in their relationship
(+) Accounts for individual differences as different people perceive rewards and costs differently

Question 5

Evaluation (-)

Answer 5

(-) Rooted in behaviourist approach as maintenance is in rewards and operant conditioning, but doesn’t explain relationships where costs are high and rewards are low e.g violent relationships
(-) Critics say that people only monitor rewards and costs when the relationship becomes dissatisfying e.g comparison levels only occur when you are dissatisfied
(-) More applicable to individualistic cultures. Perceived costs/rewards are different between cultures. Family values might be more important rewards in collectivist cultures.