Carla is involved in a romantic relationship with Jack. Her costs of the relationship are relatively low and her rewards are very high with this relationship. However, Carla has recently met Ted, and she believes that he could offer her a relationship with even higher rewards than Jack. According to social exchange theory, Carla is likely to __________.
A) break up with Jack in favor of the relationship with Ted
B) invest more in the relationship with Jack and try to forget about Ted
C) break up with Jack, forget about Ted, and seek an even more favorable third partner
D) try to maintain relationships with both Jack and Ted

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to social exchange theory, individuals engage in relationships to gain rewards and minimize costs. Carla's perception of Ted offering higher rewards than Jack would lead her to consider ending the relationship with Jack and pursue a potentially more rewarding relationship with Ted. This is consistent with the theory's focus on maximizing rewards in relationships.

Carla Is Involved in a Romantic Relationship with Jack