Cognitive Scaffold

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MENTAL MODEL · M2338

Social Exchange Theory

Social Exchange Theory
CultureHigh supportSociology
Included
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Version 1.0.0 · Updated 2026-07-30

CORE DEFINITION

All interpersonal relationships (including friendship and love) are essentially exchanges of costs and benefits. If benefits (love, status, information) > costs (time, emotion, money), the relationship continues; otherwise, it ends.

SCAFFOLDING EFFECT

psychology

Reduce cognitive load

- Relationship checkup: If you feel a relationship is draining you, do the math. Is it a long-term 'deficit'? Rational relationships require a balance of reciprocity.

anchor

Anchor fast decisions

Interpersonal relationships are modeled as cost-benefit accounting: if benefits (love, status, information, support) exceed costs (time, emotion, money), the relationship is maintained; otherwise, it ends. It is a rational choice perspective on relationship dynamics, emphasizing reciprocal balance.

MINIMUM ACTION

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Source support: Explicit

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    en.wikipedia.orghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_exchange_theoryZH · Explicit
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