Final answer:
The major assumption of social exchange theory is that individuals seek to maximize rewards and minimize costs in social interactions. The theory recognizes the balance between self-interest and altruism in human behavior. It does not consider social interactions as purely emotional or devoid of economic considerations, nor does it assume self-interest excludes the well-being of others.
Step-by-step explanation:
The major assumption of social exchange theory is option C) That individuals engage in social interactions with the expectation of receiving rewards and minimizing costs. This theory suggests that social behavior is the result of an exchange process where individuals seek to maximize benefits and reduce costs. As an example, in a romantic relationship, one might consider benefits like companionship and intimacy against costs like potential boredom or financial expenditures. The fundamental concept is that individuals seek relationships that provide a net benefit.It is important to note, however, that while people may have self-interested motivations, this does not preclude altruistic behavior. Economists and philosophers, such as Adam Smith, acknowledge that humans are capable of caring for others' well-being purely for the satisfaction it brings, without tangible personal gain. Social exchange theory, therefore, does not assume individuals act only in their self-interest and disregard others, but rather that they weigh the personal costs and benefits of their social interactions.