social exchange theory

Question 1

strength:There is research support

Answer 1

E – In a longitudinal study of dating couples at a US university, Sprecher (2001) found that the availability of alternative partners was negatively correlated with relationship commitment (meaning the greater the availability of alternative partners, the lower the level of commitment).

E – This finding provides support for the predictions of social exchange theory’s explanation for behaviour in romantic relationships. Just as social exchange theory predicts, when partners perceive the availability of potential alternative partners to be high (meaning their comparison level for alternatives is high), they will be less committed to their current relationship.
therefore,this study provides strong support for social exchange theory as a theory of romantic relationships.

Question 2

strength:has real-life applications

Answer 2

E – For example, a primary goal of Behavioural Couples Therapy (IBCT) is to increase the proportion of positive exchanges in a relationship relative to the number of negative exchanges. Christensen (2004) demonstrated the success of IBCT in a study of 60 couples. Following IBCT, two thirds reported improvements in the quality of their relationship.

E – This shows how the insights of social exchange theory have allowed for the development of successful therapeutic techniques which have helped people in the real world. This demonstrates the value of social exchange theory.