Relationships L5 - 8 Flashcards
1
Q
Social exchange theory and who was it proposed by:
A
- An economic theory assuming that romantic partners act of self-interest in exchanging rewards and costs
- Thibault and Kelley (1959)
2
Q
How is a committed relationship maintained according social exchange theory?
A
When rewards exceed costs and potential alternatives are less attractive than current relationship
3
Q
What economic assumption is social exchange theory based on?
A
Minimise losses and maximise gains
4
Q
Give examples of rewards and costs in a relationship (3 examples):
A
Rewards:
- Companionship
- Sex
- Emotional support
Costs:
- Time
- Stress
- Energy
5
Q
What did Blau (1964) say about costs in a relationship?
A
- Relationships can be ‘expensive’
- Relationships can incur the cost of ‘opportunity’
6
Q
2 ways in which we profit in a romantic relationship:
A
1) Comparison level
2) Comparison level for alternative
7
Q
Comparison level:
A
- Amount of reward you believe you deserve to get
- Based on previous relationship expectations, social norms and person’s self-esteem
- Relationship is worth pursuing if CL is high
8
Q
Comparison level for alternative:
A
- Wider context of current relationships
- Whether alternatives would gain the individual more profit than the current relationship
9
Q
4 stages by
A
