Social Exchange Theory

Social Exchange Theory is a social psychological and sociological perspective that explains social change and stability as a process of negotiated exchanges between parties. Social Exchange Theory posits that all human relationships are formed by the use of a subjective cost-benefit analysis and the comparison of alternatives. The theory has roots in economics, psychology and sociology. Social Exchange Theory features many of the main assumptions found in rational choice theory and structuralism.

Read more about Social Exchange Theory:  History, Basic Concepts, 12 Theoretical Propositions, Assumptions, Comparison Levels and Modes of Exchange, Critiques, Applications

Famous quotes containing the words social, exchange and/or theory:

    As social beings we live with our eyes upon our reflection, but have no assurance of the tranquillity of the waters in which we see it.
    Charles Horton Cooley (1864–1929)

    Development, it turns out, occurs through this process of progressively more complex exchange between a child and somebody else—especially somebody who’s crazy about that child.
    Urie Bronfenbrenner (b. 1917)

    No one thinks anything silly is suitable when they are an adolescent. Such an enormous share of their own behavior is silly that they lose all proper perspective on silliness, like a baker who is nauseated by the sight of his own eclairs. This provides another good argument for the emerging theory that the best use of cryogenics is to freeze all human beings when they are between the ages of twelve and nineteen.
    Anna Quindlen (20th century)