Exam 2 Study Guide

Module 7, 8, 9, 10, and 16

Why do people form social relationships?

We need to belong and feel emotionally connected.

What are the four types of relationships?

Virtual, Pinocchio, cyber emigrant, and real worlders.

What is uncertainty reduction theory?

Getting to know others to reduce uncertainty about them.

What is social exchange theory?

We seek relationships where benefits outweigh costs.

What is self-disclosure?

Intentionally and truthfully sharing personal information.

What is intimacy?

Significant emotional closeness in a relationship.

What are the three dialectical tensions?

1. Autonomy vs. connection

2. Openness vs. closeness

3. Predictability vs. novelty

What are the five stages of Knapp’s relationship model?

1. Initiating

2. Experimenting

3. Intensifying

4. Integrating

5. Bonding

What is groupthink?

Faulty decision-making caused by a lack of critical thinking.

What are the benefits and costs of social relationships?

Benefits include emotional support, material help, and health benefits.

Costs include time, emotional investment, money or other material costs, and physical effort.

What is the difference between social exchange theory and equity theory?

Social exchange theory focuses on whether the benefits of a relationship outweigh its costs. Equity theory focuses on whether both partners contribute and receive a fair share.

What are the five relationship maintenance behaviors?

1. Positivity

2. Openness

3. Assurances

4. Social networks

5. Sharing tasks.

What are the four types of couples based on conflict?

• Validating: discuss disagreements openly and cooperatively.

• Volatile: discuss disagreements openly but competitively.

• Conflict-avoiding: deal with disagreements indirectly.

• Hostile: experience frequent, intense conflict.

What are the four destructive conflict behaviors identified by Gottman?

1. Criticism

2. Contempt

3. Defensiveness

4. Stonewalling.