Social Exchange Theory

SOCIAL EXCHANGE THEORY

Social Exchange Theory

- Individuals attempt to maximise their rewards within a relationship.

- Commitment to a relationship is dependent on its profitability.

Comparison level - experiences with previous relationships set standards for current relationship.

Comparison level for alternatives - person considers potential increase in rewards from a different partner.

Key Study: Kurdek & Schmitt (1986)

Procedure - Investigated importance of social exchange factors in heterosexual and same-sex couples.

Findings - Satisfaction for all couples determined by perception of many benefits (comparison level) and alternatives seen as less attractive (comparison level for alternatives).

Evaluation

Sprecher - support for influence of comparison level for alternatives.

Real-World Application - use of Integrated Behavioural Couples Therapy.

Limitations:

- difficult to determine what is a cost and what is a benefit.

- problem of assessing the relative value of costs and benefits.

- overemphasis on coasts and benefits, rather than relational standards.