Social and Cultural Psychology
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Institutional Affiliation
Social and Cultural Psychology
Introduction
Many theories have been coined to explain the way we build, maintain, and even end relationships. The theories have been used to enable people to understand the diverse types of attachment styles involved in the level of intimacy held in individual relationships. The essay provides concise information about the application of social exchange theory, equity, and penetration theory.
Application of Social Exchange Theory, Equity, and Penetration Theory in Describing How Relationship can be Maintained or End
Social exchange theory entails the way in which we assess relationships to find out if they are neutral, harmful, or positive. The decision is usually based on the reward one gains versus the cost incurred (Cropanzano, Anthony, Daniels, & Hall, 2017). The theory argues that if the reward outweighs the price, the relationship will be maintained, but if the cost is more than the award, the relationship could be on a death bed.
The second theory that explains relationships is equity. It states that when it comes to relationships, there are two main issues at play. The first concern is how fair and equitable the relationships are. The other concern is how rewarding a particular relationship is, whether societal, work, or familial (Branscombe, & Baron, 2017). Essentially, the theory explains relationships based on the distribution of resources between the parties involved. When there is not equity, the relationship is likely to end.
Lastly, the penetration theory explains the relationship from the development pattern where a relationship starts from a casual to a dangerous level (Branscombe, & Baron, 2017). To proceed to the next level is dependent on the comfort levels for the people involved. If one feels that the other party is ready for new things, the other one opens. In that case, the relationship is maintained up to when one feels disregarded, and the relationship ends.
The Role Played By Attachment Style in the Level of Intimacy Shared In Friendships or Intimate Relation
Attachment style determines how the relationship progresses, maintained, and how they end. When one comes to terms with their attachment pattern, they are likely to see the strengths and difficulties they bring to the relationship (Branscombe, & Baron, 2017). People show different attachment styles. Dismissing and security are some of the styles. People who depict a secure attachment style are likely to be hurt than those who have a dismissing attachment style.
References
Branscombe, N.R., & Baron, R.A. (2017). Social Psychology (14th Ed). New York, New York: Pearson
Cropanzano, R., Anthony, E. L., Daniels, S. R., & Hall, A. V. (2017). Social exchange theory: A critical review with theoretical remedies. Academy of Management Annals, 11(1), 479-516.