In this topic 4 theories will be discussed. In simplest terms a theory is an explanation social scientist use theory not only to explain but also to guide research. More formally a theory is a set of logically related propositions that explain some phenomenon. Consequently, theory is an important part of the study of intimate relationships. Most theoretical perspectives used to study intimate relationships are borrowed from other disciplines.
First we will begin with System Theory. A variety of theories fall under the general heading of systems theory. In this theory, we learn that the family have to follow a rule. Each person or an individual family member has a set rule(s) and roles they have to follow. This is to influence and work with each other or to form groups. When going through therapy the family has to deal with the matter together and individually. This system has a lot to do with emotion. Subsystems may arise under this theory such as parent and child may form a coalition against another parent, but these may not be as harmful as they seem as they may be the love and support each other may need to get through a hard life of an abusive spouse.
The second theory is the Exchange Theory. This theory may be known as the popular “you owe me one” theory, which indicates we all attempt to keep our cost lower than our rewards in interaction. If a person is giving out more than the other, the person is likely to start avoiding the other person or break up with them. This has to do with cost which refers to any of the following, time, money, emotions, and intellectual energy, sense of security, or anything else an individual defines as a satisfying outcome of a relationship. Exchange theory posits a rational assessment of a situation. In this theory the individual weighs the pros and cons, the cost sand rewards, of a situation. He or she tries to determine if the situation is fair or appealing or worthwhile. This may happen when selecting a life partner. It also occurs in other areas of family life, such as decision making, child rearing and division of labor.
On to the third, the Symbolic Interaction Theory
This theory has a lot to do with how we have grown. How the world or persons around us teach us to become in our upbringing. Like Systems theory, symbolic theory believes that the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Such as a man who had a bad experience of parenthood become in love with the idea of becoming a parent.
And the fourth and final is Conflict Theory. This has to do with a person's mind. A man would think because they make more money, they have more power over the relationship. This theory has to do with the fact that all societies are characterized by inequality, conflict and change as groups within the society struggle over scarce resources. In family studies conflict theory is seen in explanations that focus on two types of groups which are social class and gender. Social class being the group of people with similar levels of income education, or overall lifestyle. The higher a person’s social class the higher there income of resources. Conflict theory also explains gender differences, where some believe that men have inherited advantage in power due to the income they provide to the household. Due to this they thereby have power over women in the house about the final say in any matter having to do with decision making.
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