TORR: Social exchange theory

• Thibault and Kelly (1959) 


  SET - behaviour in relationships reflects the economic assumptions of exchange
• The minimax principle

  We try to minimise losses and maximise gains
• Value

  What one considers a reward may not be to the other. Value of rewards and costs may change throughout the relationship
• Two ways we measure the profit in a romantic relationship

  Comparison level

  Comparison level for alternatives
• Comparison level

  The amount of reward you believe you deserve

  CL changes as we learn more of what we should expect

  Low self esteem = low CL so will be satisfied with less
• Comparison level of alternatives

  Wider context - could we get more rewards out of another relationship?
• Steve Duck (1994)


  CLFA depends on state of current relationship. If costs outweigh the rewards alternatives look more attractive
• Thibault and Kelley SET in relationship stages


  . Sampling stage - explore rewards and costs of SE by experimenting with them

  . Bargaining stage - marks beginning of relationship, when romantic partners start exchanging rewards and costs

  . Commitment stage - relationship stabilises as costs lessen and rewards increase

  . Institutionalisation stage - norms of rewards and costs are firmly established