Link to Assumption

• What is a key component of the initial mental process assumption?

  Decision making
• How is decision making related to romantic relationships?

  It is important in their formation
• What analogy does the theory use in its assumptions?

  Computer analogy assumption
• What does the social exchange theory suggest about partner selection?

  We make a cost benefit analysis
• What process do we use when deciding on a potential partner according to social exchange theory?

  Cost benefit analysis
• How does decision making influence the formation of romantic relationships?

  It guides partner selection through evaluation
• What is the main assumption of the cognitive approach?

  Internal mental processes influence problem solving
• How does the cognitive approach relate to romantic relationships?

  It views relationship choices as economic decisions
• Who developed the theory related to the cognitive approach in relationships?

  Thibaut and Kelley
• What does the minimax strategy involve in relationships?

  Minimizing costs while maximizing benefits
• How can the computer analogy be applied to relationship decision-making?

  Behaviors are inputs, costs and benefits are processed
• What happens when the benefits of a relationship outweigh the costs?

  Relationships are more likely to form and be maintained
• What are comparison levels used for in relationships?

  To determine if expectations about relationships are met
• What does a low comparison level for alternatives imply?

  One may stay in an unsatisfactory relationship
• What did Sacher & Fine (1996) investigate?

  Factors predicting relationship satisfaction
• What was a key finding of Sacher & Fine's research?

  Females with poor alternatives had positive relationships
• How does the comparison level of alternatives support relationship satisfaction?

  It shows how alternatives affect relationship quality