Question

According to social exchange theory, humans want to maximize the ________ and minimize the ________ in relationships. a. intimacy; commitment b. benefits; costs c. costs; benefits d. passion; intimacy

Short answer

With respect to social exchange theory, humans aim to maximize the 'benefits' and minimize the 'costs' in relationships. Therefore, the correct answer is 'b. benefits; costs'.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Theory

Understand that social exchange theory is about rewards and penalties in interpersonal relationships. It posits that individuals seek relationships where the benefits outweigh the costs.

Match Concepts with Theory

Look at all the pairs and think about which one aligns most directly with the concepts of benefit and cost as described by the social exchange theory. The exercise is not about any random attributes of a relationship, but specifically about the 'benefits' and 'costs' as defined by social exchange theory.

Compare and Choose the Correct Answer

Based on the understanding, we can see that choice 'b. benefits; costs' goes hand in hand with the social exchange theory. It aligns with the theory's concept of maximizing rewards (benefits) and minimizing penalties (costs). So, 'b' is the correct answer.

Key concepts

Interpersonal Relationships

Social exchange theory provides a framework to understand how people navigate their interpersonal relationships. According to this theory, individuals enter and maintain relationships by weighing the rewards and costs associated with them. These rewards can come in various forms, such as emotional support, companionship, or even social status, while costs might consist of time investment, emotional strain, or the potential for conflict.

Building on this foundation, the theory suggests that people strive for relationships that offer the most rewards with the least amount of costs. It's a bit like a balancing act—seeking connections that bring us joy, comfort, and satisfaction while avoiding or limiting those that drain us emotionally or otherwise.

In assessing interpersonal relationships, multiple factors are considered:

• Emotional investment and the emotional return
• The balance of power and control in the relationship
• Compatibility and shared interests
• Communication and conflict resolution
• Expectations and the extent to which they are met

Understanding these dynamics is crucial not just in one-to-one relationships, but also in group settings and broader social networks.

Maximize Benefits

To maximize benefits in any interpersonal relationship means actively seeking out and nurturing the positive aspects that make the relationship worthwhile. Benefits are the favorable elements we gain from interacting with others, including:

• Emotional gratification, like feeling loved or understood
• Practical support, such as help in times of need
• Intellectual stimulation through thoughtful conversation
• Recreational companionship for leisure activities
• Professional advancement through networking and contacts

Engaging in relationships that consistently offer these types of benefits can lead to greater life satisfaction. It's not merely about self-interest; maximizing benefits is also about contributing to the other person's well-being, creating a mutually supportive dynamic. The more enriching the exchanges, the more likely the relationship will persist and be valued by those involved.

Minimize Costs

Minimizing costs within social exchange theory involves reducing negative or undesired aspects in our relationships. This doesn't mean that we avoid all challenges; instead, it's about striving for relationships that require reasonable effort to maintain without unsustainable sacrifices. Costs can manifest as:

• Emotional distress, like that caused by frequent disagreements
• Time consumption that interferes with personal goals
• Energy drain from one-sided relationships
• Financial burden in cases where there is an economic dynamic

Whether we're aware of it or not, we make these assessments often, deciding whether the costs of maintaining a connection are outweighed by the benefits we receive. This process can be conscious or subconscious and involves a constant evaluation of whether the interpersonal exchanges are equitable and gratifying. Lowering these costs is not about seeking perfection, but optimizing the quality of our connections.