Theories of romantic relationships: social exchange theory

Question 1

Thibault and Kelly

Answer 1

• social exchange theory

Question 2

Rusbult and Zembrodt

Answer 2

• longitudinal study of 30 participants in heterosexual relationships
• they completed a questionnaire every 17 days for 7 months
• they were asked to weigh up the costs and benefits of their relationship
• those who stayed in a relationship, increases in rewards led to better satisfaction and costs had little effect on satisfaction