Social Exchange Theory and the Nursing Profession

To what extent are all theories ethical? Is social exchange theory compatible with the values of the nursing profession?

Social exchange theories broadly refer to a psychological and sociological platform that expounds on issues revolving around social change and stability as resultant factors of negotiated exchanges between different parties. These theories provide an explanation of how people interact with one another as well as the benefits they expect to get from such interactions. The assumptions of the social exchange theories on the nature of individuals as well as the nature of relationships are entrenched deeply in the exchange framework.

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These assumptions have it that human beings tend seeking rewards and to avoid punishments. However, since it may be hard to know the nature of the rewards before establishing a relationship human beings guide their behavior through their expectations for maximum benefits (McEwen & Wills, 2017). The assumptions on exchange relationships, on the other hand, have it that inter-dependence typifies social exchanges besides being regulated by norms such as fairness, justice, and reciprocity (Braithwaite, & Schrodt, 2014). The social exchange theories can be applied in nursing practice since they are compatible with the values of the nursing profession (Bach & Ellis, 2015). The principles of these theories are applied largely in administration, management, care delivery and nursing research. For instance, the assumption that a set of expectations guides the interactions between human can be used to foster positive interactions between nurses and patients. Communication and feedback are vital aspects of care delivery. Therefore, nurses can apply high-level communication skills to gather appropriate information from the patients (Braithwaite, & Schrodt, 2014). The patients, on the other hand, develop working relationships with the nurses with expectations of being provided with highquality care.

References

Bach, S., & Ellis, P. (2015). Leadership, management and team working in nursing. Los Angeles, CA: Learning Matters

Braithwaite, D. O., & Schrodt, P. (2014). Engaging theories in interpersonal communication: Multiple perspectives. Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE Publications, Inc.

McEwen, M., & Wills, E. M. (2017). Theoretical basis for nursing. New York, NY: Wolters

Kluwer Health.