Which term describes the form of social interaction where one party acts toward another to receive a reward in return?

Which term describes the form of social interaction where one party acts toward another to receive a reward in return?

• A. Exchange relationships
• B. Cooperation
• C. Conflict
• D. Coercion

Answer: (A)

Think in terms of reciprocity and rewards. When one party acts toward another with the expectation of receiving a reward in return, the interaction is transactional and guided by mutual benefit—this is an exchange relationship. Social exchange theory describes how people pursue benefits and balance costs through give-and-take, making such reciprocal actions the defining pattern. In contrast, cooperation is about jointly achieving a goal for shared benefit, conflict is antagonism, and coercion relies on force or threats rather than voluntary reciprocity. So the best fit for this description is exchange relationships.

Think in terms of reciprocity and rewards. When one party acts toward another with the expectation of receiving a reward in return, the interaction is transactional and guided by mutual benefit—this is an exchange relationship. Social exchange theory describes how people pursue benefits and balance costs through give-and-take, making such reciprocal actions the defining pattern. In contrast, cooperation is about jointly achieving a goal for shared benefit, conflict is antagonism, and coercion relies on force or threats rather than voluntary reciprocity. So the best fit for this description is exchange relationships.