Discussion Topic
Part A
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Introduction (I don’t have the textbook, so answer with outside sources if possible)
Chapter 9 of your text fully explains the social exchange theory, which claims we develop relationships that will maximize our profits or have more rewards than costs. Rewards are anything that you would incur costs to obtain and these may include: money, status, love, information, goods, and services. For example, to get a good grade you may have to study more than play.
Costs are things that you normally try to avoid, that you consider difficult or unpleasant. These may include: working overtime, washing dishes, washing and folding laundry, watching your partner’s favorite television program other than your own, or doing favors you do not like. (Buying the minivan instead of the sports car.)
Profit is what results when the costs are subtracted from the rewards. The Social Exchange theory claims that we seek to develop friendships and romantic relationships that will give us the greatest profits or more rewards than costs.
The Prompt
Think of an important relationship in your life (friend, family, partner) and consider the rewards and costs in this relationship. Costs may include 1) emotional costs, such as having to give social support or feeling bad at a friend’s misfortune, 2) temporal costs, such as the amount of time and attention the relationship requires, and 3)material costs, such as money or other tangible resources. Give at least one example of each type of cost. What are examples of rewards that balance these costs?”
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Referent Power
Chapter 11 discusses the different types of power and power is defined as the ability to manipulate, influence, or control other people or events. We all possess some form of power, it is always present, and it influences how we communicate. After reviewing the section on the power and the different type of power, please respond to the prompt below.
The Prompt
Why is referent power so influential? Why are we so eager to follow those whom we admire or find attractive? What are some examples of the positive use of power? The negative use?
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