RELATIONSHIPS Social Exchange Theory Flashcards
(44 cards)
What is social exchange theory
theory of romantic relationships that proposes that individuals initiate and maintain relationships that minimise costs and maximise rewards
Minimising costs and maximising rewards is known as ….
the minimax principle
What’s the first level?
Comparison level
What’s the first level?
Comparison level
What is the comparison level
Based on persons idea of how much reward they receive in relationships
What are comparison levels linked to
A persons self esteem - high self esteem = high expectations of rewards in relationships whereas low self esteem = lower expectations
What is comparison level of alternatives
A persons perception of whether other potential relationships would be more rewarding than the one they’re in
Who conducted the four stages
Thibault and Kelly
What are the four stages
Sampling stage
Bargaining stage
Commitment stage
Institutionalisation stage
What’s sampling stage (1)
Explore potential rewards and costs of relationships either by direct experience or observation
What is bargaining stage (2)
First stage of any romantic relationship, partners exchange rewards and costs, figure out the most profitable exchanges and negotiate the dynamics in relationship
What is commitment stage (3)
Relationship becomes more stable and become familiar with sources of rewards and costs, rewards increase and costs lessen
What is institutionalisation stage (4)
When costs and rewards are firmly established
AO3
Supporting study for social exchange theory
Emerson + Cook lab 112p max personal score computer game P concerned max rewards + min cost in personal relationship
Lacks mundane realism, strangers not like real couples
Lack external validity needed to explain real life
AO3
Real life application
IBCT increased positive and decrease negative in relationships
Christensen et al - 2/3 treated by using IBCT relationship improved
SET used help distressed couples demonstrating real world application
AO3
Too deterministic
Deterministic view assuming relationships end if costs outweigh benefits
People stay in high cost relationship - chronically ill - receive no rewards
Not take into account other factors beyond rewards + costs
What’s the second level?
Comparison level of alternatives
What’s the first level?
Comparison level
What is the comparison level
Based on persons idea of how much reward they receive in relationships
What are comparison levels linked to
A persons self esteem - high self esteem = high expectations of rewards in relationships whereas low self esteem = lower expectations
What is comparison level of alternatives
A persons perception of whether other potential relationships would be more rewarding than the one they’re in
Who conducted the four stages
Thibault and Kelly
What are the four stages
Sampling stage
Bargaining stage
Commitment stage
Institutionalisation stage
What’s sampling stage (1)
Explore potential rewards and costs of relationships either by direct experience or observation
