Which term describes the form of social interaction where one party acts toward another to receive a reward in return?

• A. Exchange relationships
• B. Cooperation
• C. Conflict
• D. Coercion

Answer: (A)

Think in terms of reciprocity and rewards. When one party acts toward another with the expectation of receiving a reward in return, the interaction is transactional and guided by mutual benefit—this is an exchange relationship. Social exchange theory describes how people pursue benefits and balance costs through give-and-take, making such reciprocal actions the defining pattern. In contrast, cooperation is about jointly achieving a goal for shared benefit, conflict is antagonism, and coercion relies on force or threats rather than voluntary reciprocity. So the best fit for this description is exchange relationships.