Question

In relationships, if one person always feels they put in more effort than they get back, what problem does this cause under Social Exchange Theory?

Accepted Answer

Under Social Exchange Theory, when one person consistently feels they are investing more effort, resources, or time into a relationship than they receive in return, it creates a problem of perceived **inequity**. Social Exchange Theory posits that relationships are like economic transactions where individuals seek to maximize their **rewards** (benefits like love, companionship, support) and minimize their **costs** (effort, time, emotional distress). People are motivated to maintain relationships that are **equitable**, meaning the ratio of rewards to costs is perceived as fair and balanced for both partners. When one partner experiences inequity, they feel they are over-benefiting, meaning they are receiving fewer rewards or incurring more costs than their partner, relative to what they are giving. This imbalance leads to feelings of **distress**. For the under-benefited partner, this distress can manifest as anger, resentment, guilt, or sadness because they feel unfairly treated. Over time, this sustained distress erodes the perceived value of the relationship. Social Exchange Theory predicts that individuals will attempt to restore equity, either by increasing their own rewards, decreasing their costs, or by trying to alter the other person&#x27;s rewards or costs. If equity cannot be restored, the under-benefited individual is likely to become dissatisfied and may ultimately decide to **dissolve** the relationship, as the perceived costs of staying outweigh the potential rewards.

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In relationships, if one person always feels they put in more effort than they get back, what problem does this cause under Social Exchange Theory?