Today we discussed several well known theories about relationships. I will share the one that stuck out to me most. As you read, ponder about the relationships you have had or currently have and try to see where they fall in with the theory I'm presenting. It is surprisingly very interesting!!! So keep reading :)
The theory I am going to discuss is the Social Exchange Theory. In a few simple words the Social Exchange Theory is the idea "you owe me one". In relationships we all intend to keep our costs lowers than or at least equal to our rewards. Some examples of costs and rewards are: time, money, and emotional or intellectual energy and gratification. No one stays in a relationship where they receive nothing back. Well then you may ask, what about abusive relationships? The theory helps try to explain that as well.
Many of us know people in abusive relationships and may have asked the question "Why do they stay?". The Social Exchange Theory explains that if the person who is being abused perceives that the rewards of the relationship outweigh the costs (no matter if they do or not) they will stay in that relationship. So in every abusive relationship there is something keeping both of the people there. They both feel that there is some sort of reward or rewards that they are not willing to give up even for the cost (which is abuse).
The theory I am going to discuss is the Social Exchange Theory. In a few simple words the Social Exchange Theory is the idea "you owe me one". In relationships we all intend to keep our costs lowers than or at least equal to our rewards. Some examples of costs and rewards are: time, money, and emotional or intellectual energy and gratification. No one stays in a relationship where they receive nothing back. Well then you may ask, what about abusive relationships? The theory helps try to explain that as well.
Many of us know people in abusive relationships and may have asked the question "Why do they stay?". The Social Exchange Theory explains that if the person who is being abused perceives that the rewards of the relationship outweigh the costs (no matter if they do or not) they will stay in that relationship. So in every abusive relationship there is something keeping both of the people there. They both feel that there is some sort of reward or rewards that they are not willing to give up even for the cost (which is abuse).
Be aware of the costs and rewards in the relationships that you have. Do you feel like you are receiving more costs than rewards or vice versa? If so experiment a little and see what the results bring. Bake someone some cookies, listen a little more or even tell someone that their costs are not meeting your rewards. A little love can go a long way!