Social exchange theories and sexuality

Abstract

Social Exchange Theory is one of the social science theories that have been applied to the study of human sexuality. This theoretical perspective is of particular relevance for understanding sexuality as it is negotiated between two people who have a relationship with each other. In this article, I describe three specific social exchange models with particular relevance to sexuality: equity theory (e.g., Walster, Walster, & Berscheid, 1978), the Investment Model (Rusbult, 1980(Rusbult, , 1983, and the Interpersonal Model of Sexual Satisfaction (Lawrance & Byers, 1992, 1995. Then, I discuss how the general social exchange perspective or one of the more specific exchange models/theories has been applied to five topics that focus on sexuality within a relational context: (a) partner selection, (b) onset of sexual activity, (c) sexual satisfaction, (d) sexual initiation and refusal, and (e) extradyadic sexual behavior.

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“…If there are greater rewards than costs, the difference is considered positive. In contrast, the exchange is considered negative if the rewards or resources do not outweigh the costs or punishments (Sprecher, 1998).…”

“…This is contingent upon the actual rewards and the individual's expectation of deserved rewards. This is rooted in investments or resources that cannot be regained if the relationship is ended, such as mutual friends, possessions, or devoted time (Sprecher, 1998). Longer relationships lead to increased investments that increase relationship value, which cause an individual to feel more committed because of the increased cost of leaving the relationship (Rusbult, 1980 (Byers, 1998).…”

“…The first model, equity theory, discusses the level of balance between partners (Sprecher, 1998). This theory is centralized around the notion that individuals will become distressed if they believe that they are receiving a greater portion of the rewards or punishments.…”

“…This often involves a negotiation. Although there are rarely discussions about specific rewards that are exchanged for sex, rewards such as dinners, date, favors, or gifts may be given to the partner withholding sex (Sprecher, 1998).…”

“…The exchange approach is rooted in partner selection (Sprecher, 1998 The onset of sexual activity is also based in the social exchange theory. Often, individuals differ as to when to begin a sexual relationship.…”