What is social exchange theory? How does this theory relate to the concept of transactional sex?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Social exchange theory is a microsociological theory based on the idea that individuals will draw on their personal resources to maximize their rewards and minimize their costs. Furthermore, the theory suggests we form, maintain, and dissolve social relationships based in large part on our perceptions of equity and balance in the calculus of exchange (Karraker & Grochowski, 2012). In other words, we commit to and continue in a long-term intimate relationship to the extent that we trust we will be treated fairly in the long run (Scanzoni, 1978, 1982; Marsiglio & Scanzoni, 1995).
Among the family social problems that interest sociologists is why young men and women become sexually active, often before they are developmentally or socially ready to do so. Sexual engagement might be driven by patterns of exchange. Luke et al. (2011) in the United States and Kenya have studied premarital relationships among women in sub-Saharan Africa. They found that unmarried women who are poor are more likely to engage in transactional sex, the receipt of money and gifts from a male partner in exchange for sexual activities, and that engaging in transactional sex decreases a young woman's power to negotiate a relationship to her advantage (such as requiring the man to use a condom). As young women's income increased, so did the likelihood that they would delay sex and engage in safer sexual practices.