Made up of economic terminology, rewards and costs
Comparison level
based on a persons idea of how much rewards they deserve to receive out of a relationship. It is a subjective understanding and depends on situational experiences for an individual
Comparison level for alternatives
Concerns a persons perception of whether other potential relationships would be more rewarding than their current relationship
Sampling
When ppl explore potential rewards and costs of relationships, not just romantically, either by direct experience or observation of others
Bargaining
Partners exchange rewards and costs, figuring out the most profitable exchanges and negotiating the dynamics of the relationship
Commitment
When the relationship becomes more stable because we are now familiar with the rewards and costs of the relationship with our partner. Rewards will increase and costs will lessen
