Social Exchange Theory

Power Theory Paper- Social Exchange Theory Have you ever finished a movie and thought that it felt relatively relatable to your own life? Maybe it was a situation such as a fight with a boyfriend, or a parent. Maybe you were able to picture yourself as the main character because you felt as though you had many similar traits, values, or problems. The media often uses underlying psychological and communication theories in their scripts, because they are applicable to the average human being. The film industry specifically hires analysts to determine what theories would be best fit to implement subconsciously into a movie or television show to make the viewer feel as though they could fit into the scene. Many people only want someone to give
With this being said, exchange theorists address power by focusing on the social constructs of resources and dependence. The partner in a relationship with the greater amount of resources, also, tends to be the one with the greater power, largely because they have relatively greater control over the situational outcomes available to each partner. The basis of the social exchange theory can also be used to explain patterns of power and decision-making found within
In the television show, the reward for both the bachelor, and women involved in the process, is the possibility of finding a potential significant other, and potential life mate. The costs for both parties would be heartbreak, deception, and jealousy, in the sense that the women all have to live in a house together and compete for the same man. When the bachelor gives a woman a rose after a romantic date, the woman receiving the rose is highly likely to repeat the same actions and behaviors if that means she has a chance at a second date, because she understands the likes and dislikes of the bachelor and the actions necessary to make him happy. The women who last until the end of the show understand what behaviors will get them the reward they want, which is a rose and another week of dating the bachelor. In the eyes of the women, the bachelor gives more that just a rose. As he gets to know the women more intimately, he gives tangible gifts to create satisfaction, like hugs, kisses, and his hand to hold. The women understand that each action holds a specific value, and the potential of each outcome could turn into a greater happiness derived from receiving a rose. As arrogance becomes a factor in some of the relationships, it is easy for the women to forget the power the rose has over