User:HannahBake/Social exchange theory

User:Mdg076/Social exchange theory

Social Exchange Theory is used all the time when we interact with another person. This plays a big role in our communication with others. When we pursue Social Exchange we might receive an award or it might cost us. For example; benefits can be immediate or ongoing, and they can be real (like products and services) or abstract (like love and companionship). Most of the time Social Exchange is not pursued unless those factors take place. We encounter Social Exchange Theory often when we are in a relationship with someone. People have benefits in relationships, like offerings, affection from their spouse, and an upsurge in self-esteem, but they also have costs, such having to pay for gifts, making sacrifices on how to spend their time, or experiencing stress. This is why it's good for us to want to use Social Exchange, because it can help us have a healthier relationship with someone or a better friendship. It helps create a less selfish side of humans in a way.