relationship - social exchange theory

Question 1

who proposed the social exchange theory (set)

Answer 1

thibault and kelley (1959)

Question 2

what is the social exchange theory?

Answer 2

an economic theory based on the assumption that people in relationships both seek exchange. it also explains how relationships form and develop, it assumes that romantic partners act out of self-interest in exchanging rewards and cost.

Question 3

rewards, costs and profits

Answer 3

we judge our satisfaction with a relationship based on the profit it yields. profits = rewards - costs. this theory also proposes that people try to maximise the rewards they obtain from a relationship and minimise the costs = minimax principle

Question 4

what are comparison levels (CL)?

Answer 4

this refers to the amount of reward we think we deserve and changes over time due to maturity an being influenced by external and internal factors.

Question 5

external factors

Answer 5

media, friends and families in relationships and experiences from prior relationships

Question 6

internal factors

Answer 6

self-esteem

Question 7

what are comparison level for alternatives (CLalt)?

Answer 7

involves considering whether we might gain more reward and endure fewer costs in different relationships.

Question 8

what are the stages of relationship development?

Answer 8

sampling, bargaining, commitment and institutionalisation