Which theory explains relationships in terms of rewards and costs?

• A. Social Exchange Theory
• B. Equity Theory
• C. Relationship Rules Theory
• D. Attraction Theory

Answer: (A)

Social Exchange Theory explains relationships as ongoing exchanges where people seek to maximize rewards (companionship, support, affection) and minimize costs (time, effort, conflict). It treats outcomes as the result of weighing what you get against what you give, and you also compare your situation to what you could obtain with an alternative partner (the comparison level for alternatives). When rewards exceed costs and comparisons are favorable, satisfaction and commitment tend to rise; when they don’t, the relationship may suffer or end. This focus on the cost-benefit calculation is what makes it the best fit for explaining relationships in terms of rewards and costs. In contrast, Equity Theory centers on fairness of the input-output ratio, Relationship Rules Theory looks at norms guiding interactions, and Attraction Theory explains why people are drawn to each other initially, rather than ongoing exchanges of rewards and costs.