Final answer:
Social exchange theory is not a theoretical perspective used for describing peer relationships. It focuses on the costs and benefits in social interactions, contrasting with attachment, sociocultural, and social learning theories, which are relevant to studying peer dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Research on peer relationships is based on multiple theoretical views, but among the options provided, the one that is not a theoretical perspective used for describing and explaining peer relationships is Social exchange theory. This theory is often associated with the analysis of how individuals interact in social relationships, considering the costs and benefits to their decisions. The other perspectives like Attachment theory, Sociocultural theory, and Social learning theory are indeed used in the context of studying peer relationships. Attachment theory emphasizes the importance of early relationships and bonds formed between children and their caregivers; sociocultural theory looks at how our cultural norms and values shape interactions, and social learning theory suggests that people learn behaviors through observation and imitation of others.
In sociology and related social sciences, several theoretical perspectives are applied to study different aspects of society and human behavior. These include Functionalism, which views society as having a system of interdependent inherently connected parts; Symbolic interactionism, which examines societal issues through the meanings individuals impart to their actions and symbols; and Conflict theory, which explores the power dynamics and structural inequalities within society. Additionally, situations that influence the formation of relationships include shared interests, physical proximity, and mutual attraction, explained by the triangular theory of love.