Melanie invests time and resources selecting special gifts and excursions for her partner, Dan. Dan graciously accepts, and on rare occasions will bring her flowers. If we apply social exchange theory to this relationship, what will likely be the outcome?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Social exchange theory suggests that relationships are maintained through a cost-benefit analysis by each party. If Melanie invests significantly more into the relationship than Dan, she may begin to feel that the relationship is imbalanced and become resentful, potentially leading to the end of the relationship.

Melanie Invests Time and Resources Selecting Special Gifts and Excursions