Who is Most Likely to Give Money to a Homeless Person?

According to Social Exchange Theory

According to social exchange theory, which of the following people is most likely to give money to a homeless person?

O jade, who feels empathy for the homeless person

O emma, who has a genetic predisposition for helping people

O jack, who is related to the homeless person

O bill, who wants to impress his date by helping the homeless person

Final answer:

Bill, who wants to impress his date, is most likely to give money to a homeless person according to social exchange theory because his action is expected to bring him an immediate social benefit.

Explanation:

According to social exchange theory, Bill, who wants to impress his date by helping the homeless person, is most likely to give money to a homeless person. This theory operates on the principle that human interactions are transactions that aim to maximize benefits and minimize costs. In this scenario, Bill's behavior can be seen as self-serving as he gains social capital or approval from his date.

The social exchange theory suggests that our interactions are based on the evaluation of the costs and benefits involved. While Jade, who feels empathy, and Jack, who is related to the homeless person, might also have compelling reasons to give money, it is Bill's expectancy of an immediate social reward that aligns most closely with the theory.

Exchange theory is often criticized for focusing too heavily on material exchanges and neglecting nonmaterial benefits such as love and friendship. However, in Bill's case, the potential for a positive impression on his date provides a clear incentive for action under the social exchange framework.