The theory that social behavior is an exchange to maximize benefits and minimize costs is?

The theory that social behavior is an exchange to maximize benefits and minimize costs is?

• A. Reciprocity Norm
• B. Social Exchange Theory
• C. Self-Disclosure
• D. Altruism

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that people view social interactions as exchanges where they seek to maximize benefits and minimize costs. This is Social Exchange Theory. It explains why someone might help or cooperate only if the perceived rewards (like social approval, future reciprocity, or personal satisfaction) outweigh the costs (time, effort, risk). Decisions about whether to engage, help, or form relationships are guided by this cost–benefit calculus and by comparisons to alternative options or expectations of future interactions. In this view, actions aren’t driven purely by goodwill but by rational weighing of what one stands to gain versus what it costs to do it. Other concepts describe pieces of social behavior but don’t capture the whole framework. The reciprocity norm involves the expectation to return favors, which is related but narrower. Self-disclosure is about sharing personal information to build trust. Altruism refers to helping without expectation of reward. The broader exchange perspective specifically centers on weighing costs and benefits in social choices, making it the best fit.

The idea being tested is that people view social interactions as exchanges where they seek to maximize benefits and minimize costs. This is Social Exchange Theory. It explains why someone might help or cooperate only if the perceived rewards (like social approval, future reciprocity, or personal satisfaction) outweigh the costs (time, effort, risk). Decisions about whether to engage, help, or form relationships are guided by this cost–benefit calculus and by comparisons to alternative options or expectations of future interactions. In this view, actions aren’t driven purely by goodwill but by rational weighing of what one stands to gain versus what it costs to do it.

Other concepts describe pieces of social behavior but don’t capture the whole framework. The reciprocity norm involves the expectation to return favors, which is related but narrower. Self-disclosure is about sharing personal information to build trust. Altruism refers to helping without expectation of reward. The broader exchange perspective specifically centers on weighing costs and benefits in social choices, making it the best fit.