Social exchange theory

• What is one strength of social exchange theory mentioned in the study material?

  Research support
• How many couples were studied in the research mentioned?

  185 couples
• What types of couples were included in the study?

  Both heterosexual and homosexual couples
• What was associated with greater relationship satisfaction according to the questionnaire responses?

  The perception of many benefits within the current relationship and seeing alternatives as less attractive
• Why is the finding about relationship satisfaction significant?

  It suggests that social exchange theory can predict relationship satisfaction
• What can relationship satisfaction predict according to the study material?

  The likelihood of a relationship lasting
• What conclusion can be drawn about social exchange theory based on the study findings?

  Social exchange theory has validity
• What are the key components that relate to relationship satisfaction in social exchange theory?

  • Perception of many benefits within the current relationship (CL)
  • Seeing alternatives to the current relationship as less attractive (CLA)
• What is a weakness of social exchange theory regarding relationships?

  Other factors also play a role in determining whether people leave a relationship with little reward
• How might beliefs about relationships influence a person's decision to stay in a relationship?

  Beliefs may lead individuals to think it is selfish to focus on their own needs
• Why is it significant that upbringing influences beliefs about relationships?

  It suggests that individuals may have low relationship standards despite recognizing costs
• What does social exchange theory fail to fully explain about relationships?

  • Individual differences play a role
  • Relationship satisfaction and success are influenced by more than just rewards and costs
• What is a strength of social exchange theory?

  It has real world applications and can be used in therapy.
• What did Gottman and Levenson (1992) find about successful marriages?

  The ratio of positive to negative exchanges was around 5:1.
• What was the ratio of positive to negative exchanges in unsuccessful marriages according to Gottman and Levenson (1992)?

  The ratio was around 1:1 or less.
• How can Integrated Behavioural Couples Therapy (IBCT) help relationships?

  • Increases positive exchanges
  • Decreases negative exchanges
  • Helps partners break negative behavior patterns
  • Aims to make partners happier
• What was the outcome of treating over 60 distressed couples using IBCT?

  About two-thirds reported significant improvements in their relationship quality.
• What is the overall conclusion about social exchange theory in therapy?

  • It can be very useful in therapy
  • It helps improve relationships
• What is a weakness of the Social Exchange Theory (SET) according to some researchers?

  There is an issue with cause and effect regarding SET assumptions.
• What does Argyle (1987) argue about relationship assessment?

  People rarely assess their relationships until they feel unsatisfied.
• How might dissatisfaction in a relationship influence a person's thoughts according to Argyle?

  Dissatisfaction may lead a person to question rewards, costs, and alternatives.
• Why is the argument by Argyle significant in relation to SET?

  It contradicts SET's assumption that profit and loss assessment occurs in all relationships.
• What is the implication of Argyle's argument for the Social Exchange Theory?

  • SET may not fully explain relationship success.
  • Assessment of rewards and costs may occur only after dissatisfaction.