Question

Jeaneth and delon work as waiter and assistant waiter in the ship's dining room. jeaneth is very good with the passengers and delon is very efficient in keeping everything moving. they both benefit from working together. they are now friends and spend time together when they are not working. which theory best explains the emergence of their friendship?

a. reward theory
b. equity theory
c. opposites attract theory
d. social exchange theory

Answer 1

The emergence of Jeaneth and Delon's friendship is best explained by the social exchange theory, which describes mutual benefit through exchanges, aligning with their complementary work skills and evolving trust. The correct answer is option: d. social exchange theory.

Step-by-step explanation:

The theory that best explains the emergence of Jeaneth and Delon's friendship is D. social exchange theory. This theory is predicated on the concept of mutual benefit through exchanges which can be material or nonmaterial, such as providing support or companionship.

Since Jeaneth is skilled with passengers and Delon is efficient in operations, they complement each other's abilities, creating a mutualistic relationship. In turn, this evolving partnership likely fosters trust and friendship, akin to instances where individuals cooperate in scenarios addressed by the prisoner's dilemma.

While the reward theory also seems pertinent because it focuses on the benefits individuals receive from relationships, the context given emphasizes the efficiency and effectiveness of their working relationship, which aligns more closely with the social exchange perspective. The social exchange theory recognizes the nonmaterial assets like friendship that may develop over time due to consistent and balanced exchanges.