Understanding Social Exchange Theory
Think of your relationships like your bank account - you want more money going in than coming out! Social exchange theory suggests we all follow the minimax principle: minimising our losses (costs) whilst maximising our gains (rewards).
Rewards might include companionship, emotional support, or even just having someone to watch Netflix with. Costs could be the stress of arguments, having to compromise on what to watch, or the opportunity cost - basically, the time and energy you're spending on this person instead of doing other things.
Here's the clever bit: we measure whether our relationship is worth it using two comparison methods. Comparison level (CL) is what you think you deserve based on past relationships and what seems normal. Comparison level for alternatives (CLalt) is comparing your current relationship to other options - including being single.
Quick Check: If your current relationship feels better than being alone or dating someone else, you'll probably stick around!
The tricky thing is that what counts as a reward or cost is completely subjective. Your partner's adventurous nature might seem exciting at first but could feel exhausting later on.
