Chapter 09 – Social Exchange Theory
Chapter 09
Social Exchange Theory
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Relationships in which costs exceed rewards are perceived as having
2. Emotional support and companionship may be perceived as being _____ in a relationship.
3. Sabatelli and Shehan use the metaphor of a(n) _____ to describe the social exchange that
takes place in relationships.
4. Which of the following accurately states the two assumptions that Social Exchange Theory
makes about the nature of relationships?
5. Which of the following assumptions of Social Exchange Theory suggests that the theory
must take diversity into consideration?
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25. Social Exchange Theory says that a relationship in which the partners have no power over
each other will be the most satisfying and least costly.
26. Behavioral sequences are a series of actions designed to achieve one’s goals.
27. If no rewarding options are available, an individual will choose the option that is most
costly to him or her.
28. Social Exchange theorists believe that all relationships require time and effort on the part
of the participants.
29. Saying that humans are rational decision makers is essentially the same thing as saying
they engage in rationalization.
30. A prevailing belief in Social Exchange Theory is that people are rational decision makers.
Essay Questions
31. Describe the concepts of costs and rewards in a relationship, and give examples of each.
Also, provide examples of things that could be perceived as both costs and rewards in a
relationship.
Answers will vary.
32. Discuss the two types of comparison levels that are used when deciding whether to
continue or terminate a relationship. Provide examples of each based on a personal decision
that was made with regard to the continuance of a relationship.
Answers will vary.
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33. Describe the role of power in calculating relational rewards and costs. What are the two
types of power that are addressed in Social Exchange Theory? Provide an example of each.
Answers will vary.
34. Describe the different patterns of communication that individuals can employ in coping
with power differentials in relationships.
Answers will vary.
35. How does the role of self function in Social Exchange Theory?
Answers will vary.
36. What conclusions can be drawn with respect to the role of self-disclosure in Social
Exchange Theory? How is it discussed in the theory?
Answers will vary.
37. Apply social exchange principles to a relationship you have with a close co–worker or
family member.
Answers will vary.
38. Do you agree with the assumption that humans are fundamentally rational beings when it
comes to evaluating relationships? Why or why not? What, if any, change would you propose
to refine this theory to account for irrational relational behaviors?
Answers will vary.
39. How would you go about researching a particular relational phenomenon using Social
Exchange Theory? Formulate a hypothesis or research question and describe the study you
would conduct.
Answers will vary.