according to the social exchange theory, what factors determine how we feel about a relationship with another person?
According to the social exchange theory, what factors determine how we feel about a relationship with another person?
Answer: According to the social exchange theory, our feelings about a relationship with another person are determined by the balance between the benefits and costs of that relationship. The theory suggests that individuals engage in relationships in order to maximize their rewards and minimize their costs.
In this theory, benefits refer to the positive aspects or outcomes that we gain from being in a relationship. These can include emotional support, companionship, love, intimacy, and shared activities. Benefits can also include material resources, such as financial support or access to certain opportunities.
On the other hand, costs refer to the negative aspects or sacrifices that we have to make in a relationship. These can include time and effort spent on the relationship, compromises, sacrifices of personal goals or desires, and dealing with conflicts or disagreements.
The theory argues that we evaluate our relationships based on a comparison of the benefits and costs it provides. If the benefits outweigh the costs, we are more likely to feel satisfied and happy in the relationship. Conversely, if the costs outweigh the benefits, we may feel dissatisfied or unhappy.
It is important to note that the social exchange theory also takes into account the concept of alternatives. It suggests that our satisfaction and commitment to a relationship also depend on the perception of available alternatives outside of the current relationship. If there are attractive alternatives with greater benefits and fewer costs, it may decrease our satisfaction and commitment to the current relationship.
Overall, the social exchange theory highlights the importance of weighing the benefits and costs in our relationships to understand and predict how we feel about them.