Human Relationships: WHY THEY CHANGE/END

Question 1

WHATS THE THEORY

Answer 1

social exchange theory

Question 2

WHATS SOCIAL EXCHANGE THEORY

Answer 2

people review and weigh their relationships in terms of COSTS and REWARDS, and may leave if they think they can do better elsewhere

Question 3

What are the three components of SET

Answer 3

The outcome of a relationship is defined as the rewards of the relationship minus the costs. Rewards of a relationship can include anything from physical intimacy, emotional support, companionship, fun, improved social standing, financial support, and more. Costs, on the other hand, can include things like unpleasant arguments. Obviously, people seek relationships that have lots of rewards, with as few costs as possible.
​
The rewards and costs of a relationship are measured against a person’s comparison level. A comparison level is what a person “expects” in a relationship, which is often shaped by past relationships and social expectations.
​
Finally, the stability of a relationship also depends on the comparison level for alternatives. Simply put, the comparison level for alternatives are the “other options” out there in the dating pool, you might leave a generally satisfying relationship if someone even more appealing comes along. On the other hand, if you feel there are few options out there for romance, you might stay in a less fulfilling relationship, simply because the alternatives are even worse.

Question 4

EVALUATION OF SET

Answer 4

A strength of social exchange theory is that it can explain why some people stay in unhappy, even abusive, relationships. If an abused person feels like there is nobody else out there, and is terrified of being single, they may stay in an unhappy relationship, simply due to a lack of alternatives. Conversely, it can explain why some people leave seemingly happy relationships, if there are even more appealing alternatives available
​
A limitation of social exchange theory is that it is based on a number of assumptions: that people are completely motivated by self-interest in relationships, seeking to maximize their rewards, and minimize their costs. The theory also implies that true commitment doesn’t exist, suggesting that people always consider alternatives to their relationship. It is questionable whether these assumptions are valid
​​
Since it is impossible to objectively quantify relationship rewards, costs, and the quality of alternatives, it is difficult to use the theory to predict which couples will stay together and which will break up
​

Question 5

STUDY 2

Answer 5

Gottman