Lesson 5 - Social Exchange Theory Flashcards
What is the social exchange theory?
An economic theory of relationships that states relationships are like businesses, where we monitor the rewards (e.g. fun), and the costs (e.g. time). Every1 wants maximum rewards from minimum costs.
What is comparison levels?
We compare our current relationship with previous ones. Present relationship should have higher rewards and less cost than previous.
What is comparison level for alternative?
We also compare current partner to others we could have a relationship with. If someone believes there is high reward in switching to a new partner, and low costs in leaving the current one, comparison level will be high.
What is a strength of the Social exchange theory?
Gottman found evidence that supports the theory. He found that individuals in unsuccessful had a lack of positive exchange, and an excess of negative exchange with their partner. Successful relationships should have ratio 5:1 and unsuccessful is 1:1.
What is another strength of the Social exchange theory?
Different people perceive rewards and costs differently, therefore this theory accounts for individual differences in attraction.
What is a weakness of the theory?
Mogahaddan criticised the theory, as it is more applicable to individualistic culture than collectivist ones. The costs and rewards will differ between cultures. Collectivist = family ties and Individualistic = material presents.
What is a drawback of the theory?
Theory is rooted in the behaviourist approach, as a relationship is maintained through rewards and operant conditioning. However, some relationships have little reward and many costs, but still continue (violent relationships)
