Question

Dependence in an exchange relationship is asymmetric if __________.

A. one person controls a resource needed by the other
B. both parties have equal access to the resource needed
C. both parties have equal power
D. neither party trusts the other

Answer 1

Dependence in an exchange relationship is asymmetric if A. one person controls a resource needed by the other.

Step-by-step explanation:

This scenario represents a power imbalance where one party has a critical resource that the other lacks, leading to dependency by the party without the resource. Exchange relationships ideally involve mutual benefit where both parties provide valuable resources to one another. However, when the exchange is asymmetrical, it can lead to a form of dependency where one party may have to submit more to the will of the resource controller, as the resource controller holds greater power in the relationship.

In contrast, situations described by options B (equal access to resources), C (equal power), and D (lack of trust) do not inherently indicate an asymmetric dependency in exchange relationships. Options B and C suggest a level of equality that prevents dependency, while D focuses on the emotional aspect of the relationship rather than resource control.