1. How do different perspectives impact relationship development and maintenance particularly, in terms of exchange versus communal factors? Have you ever experienced these different perspectives? Provide examples.
An individual’s perspective in life depends on their life experiences, beliefs and the environment within which they grow. The family is vital in shaping the types of relationships an individual will have in their future (Stafford, 2017). Relationships range from those of liking, loving and other close relationships that may or may not last. Stafford, 2017 argues that in all these relationships, perspectives significantly affect their formation and maintenance. Such perspectives are given exchange verses communal factors. In terms of exchange, the partner expects a give and take model in the relationship; where one gives and expects to receive an equivalent measure (Stafford, 2017). In the case of communal, one partner gives and does not necessarily expect to receive anything.
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I have experienced both perspectives in my life. I had a relationship in which on valentine’s day, I prepared a surprise dinner for a friend with the hope that they would also give me a surprise from their end. When they failed to do so, I was disappointed. On the other hand, I was in the same school as a friend who had financial challenges. I would share whatever I had with them without really expecting much from them. The former is an example of exchange while the latter is a communal relationship.
2.Using the social exchange theory, equity theory and penetration theory, describe how relationships are maintained or ended. What role does attachment style play in the level of intimacy shared in friendships or intimate relationships?
The social exchange theory proposes that relationships are pegged on a give-and-take factor (Stafford, 2017). If one partner gives and others receive without a willingness to provide an equivalent measure in return, the relationship may end. The penetration theory, on the other hand, proposes that an individual has many layers to their inner self which they only make known depending on the depth of relationship existing between them and their partner (Erber, Erber, 2017). When two people cannot disclose crucial personal information to each other in their relationship, the connection may end. According to Erber, Erber, 2017, equity theory argues about the concern of fairness in the relation of two partners. As such, if one partner in a relationship perceives a relationship to be unfair in some way, their dissatisfaction may kill the connection. Fairness maintains friendships.
An individual’s attachment style determines how intimate they become in their relationships. Secure attachments create confidence and self-possession and as such one can easily interact with their partners (Erber, Erber, 2017). In so doing, a person meets their own needs and those of their partner. Attachments also significantly affect the choice of partners and how relationships progress from their time of formation and onwards and whether they survive or die.
References
Erber, R., & Erber, M. (2017). Intimate relationships: Issues, theories, and research . Psychology Press.
Stafford, L. (2017). Social Exchange Theory: A Cost-Benefit Approach to Relationships. In Engaging Theories in Family Communication (pp. 279-289). Routledge.
