Social Exchange Theory
Generally accredited to sociologist George Homans, the Social Exchange Theory essentially defines the costs versus the rewards in any given relationship, relative to both parties. Individuals value relationships differently depending upon the benefits they will receive. For example, if Jake helps to tutor Jose in math, and in turn Jose helps Jake to get in shape, they are participating in a type of social exchange called a direct exchange. Both parties exchange costs and rewards within the relationship. They both possess a comparison level, or standard of what they think they could gain from the relationship. In this example Jose improves in math, and Jake gets in better physical shape. These types of relationships however do not define the norm. Many people are in relationships that are not beneficial to them, but the cost of leaving the relationship is greater than remaining within it. This
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To summarize their relationship, Dwight is Michael’s subordinate within an office at Dunder Mifflin Paper Company. Dwight is very ambitious, and to further his career, he actively seeks to be always in Michael’s favor by following him, with fervent devotion. In return Dwight is rewarded with the prestigious title of “Assistant to the Regional Manager.” Michael, on the other hand is quite apathetic, and somewhat annoyed by Dwight, but enjoys his admiration. At times Michael uses Dwight’s loyalty for his own gain, such as making him do his laundry. In terms of the exchange patterns of the Social Exchange Theory, they are demonstrating what is called a dispositional matrix. In evaluating their relationships, both Michael and Dwight have comparison levels for the relationship, and they embody a productive exchange