According to social exchange theory, what is the most likely reason many women choose to remain in physically abusive intimate relationships?
A) They believe they deserve the negative treatment.
B) Many women have an unconscious wish to be punished.
C) The rewards outweigh the costs.
D) They believe they have no other alternatives.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to social exchange theory, individuals weigh the benefits and costs of staying in a relationship. In the case of physically abusive relationships, women may believe they have no other alternatives (such as financial independence, social support, or the ability to leave safely) and therefore stay because the perceived costs of leaving outweigh the benefits.

According to Social Exchange Theory, What Is the Most Likely