Chapter 8:Communicating in close

relationships

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Cost-Benefit Analysis Option #1:

• Large 5 topping, $10.99

Option #2: • Large 2 topping,

$8.99 Option #3:

• Large 5 topping, $6.99 (no delivery)

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Social Exchange Theory

People seek to maximize rewards and minimize costs.

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Social Exchange Theory

Formula for calculating relational worth:

Worth = Rewards - Costs

Relational Benefits: Need Fulfillment

Relational Costs: Time, energy, money, focus, etc.

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How do we evaluate relationships?

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1.Comparison Level: What do we expect?

2.Comparison Level of Alternatives: What options do we have?

3.Level of Equality: Is the give and take of the relationship fair?

What about abusive relationships?

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Final Thoughts…