Theories Of Romantic Relationships: Social Exachange Theory (SET) Flashcards
What did Thibault and Kelley (1959) proposed that relationships could be explained by
In terms of economics- an exchange of goods. Individuals want to maximise rewards and minimise costs. They stay in them as they are rewarding
What is SET based on
Economic principles - we form and maintain relationships as they are rewarding - successful relationships are profitable as the rewards we receive from the relationship outweigh the costs incurred
What are the rewards from relationships
Sex, companionship, being cared about etc
When do people form a relationship
If the rewards outweigh the costs (in terms of time, effort, finances etc)
What types of relationships last
Profitable ones
What are the costs of a relationship
Loss of time or stress
What is a measure of profit
Comparison level - the standard against which all our relationships are judged
How do we get a comparison level
Through using our own experiences in other relationships together with general views of what we might expect to gain from the relationship
What happens if benefits exceeds the comparison level
Would see that forming the relationship is beneficial
What is the comparison level for alternatives
When we compare our current relationship with the benefits we would receive from an alternative relationship
What happens if benefits of alternative relationship are better
End current relationship and start new one
What are the 4 stages that all relationships go through
- Sampling stage
- Bargaining stage
- Commitment stage
- Institutionalisation stage
What is sampling stage
This involves exploring rewards and costs by experimenting in our relationships and observing others
What is the bargaining stage
Occurs at the start of the relationship where romantic partners negotiate around costs and rewards
What is commitment stage
Relationship is stable. Costs reduced and rewards increased
