social exchange theory A01 Flashcards
define social exchange theory
the likelihood of a person staying in a relationship is determined by an assessment of what they get out compared to what they put in to the relationship and how the relationship measures up against what they expect and what they might achieve in another relationship.
who developed the social exchange theory?
Thibuat and Kelley
individuals who receive favourable rewards and costs outcomes are more likely to be what?
satisfied in their relationship and so are less likely to leave it
what are the series of exchanges in the social exchange theory?
maximising rewards and minimising costs
what are rewards from a relationship?
sex, companionship, fun
what are costs of a relationship?
effort, financial investment and time wasted
what does the social exchange theory stress?
it stresses that commitment to a relationship is dependent on the profitability of the outcome
define what is meant by comparison level
a standard which all our relationships are judged against
what is our comparison level a product of?
our experiences in other relationships and our expectation of a current relationship
if a new relationship exceeds our CL, what is the relationship perceived to be?
worthwhile and attractive
if the profits in the relationship is less than our CL, what is the relationship perceived to be?
less attractive and less worthwhile
who may have a low CL?
someone who has had unpleasant relationships
who may have a high CL?
someone who has had previously rewarding relationships
what makes a romantic relationship have a higher degree of solidarity and commitment?
if both partners’ outcomes and profits are above their CL.
define comparison level for alternatives
where the person weighs up a potential increase in rewards from a different relationship
