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Social Exchange Theory and Aging

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Encyclopedia of Geropsychology

Synonyms

Lifespan; Relationship development; Social network

Definition

Social exchange and aging is defined as the change and stability of exchanges among individuals across the lifespan.

Introduction

Social exchange theory proposes that social behavior and interactions among individuals are a result of an exchange process. This perspective suggests that the relationship between individuals is generated by the pursuit of rewards and benefits and the avoidance of costs and punishment. In this entry, social exchange theory is defined and discussed as it applies to the aging process. First, social exchange theory, which is rooted in economic, psychological, and sociological foundations, is introduced, followed by a description of how social exchanges change and develop as individuals age, why they are important, and innovative perspectives on social exchanges. Next, major psychosocial and sociodemographic factors that can influence the development of social exchanges over the life course...

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Correspondence to Wylie H. Wan .

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Wan, W.H., Antonucci, T.C. (2016). Social Exchange Theory and Aging. In: Pachana, N. (eds) Encyclopedia of Geropsychology. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-287-080-3_285-1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-287-080-3_285-1

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  • Online ISBN: 978-981-287-080-3

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