Abstract
M.A. (Sociology)
Much has been written about Romans' exchange theory, but even
though his publication Social Behavior: Its Elementary Forms
evoked much reaction and criticism, there has never been an
attempt to make a systematic and integrated summary thereof.
The objective of this study is to make an extensive study of
Romans' view of exchange and his social exchange theory, in
which he explains certain social phenomena in terms of
exchange behavior.
This thesis takes the form of a documentary study of Romans'
exchange theory. Most of the books and articles written by
various authors about Romans were consulted, with the emphasis
falling on works highlighting his exchange theory.
To gain perspective as to Romans' individualistic perspective
of his exchange theory, a wide range of different perspectives
relating to exchange theories were examined.
A comprehensive and systematic exposition of Romans'
biographical history, academical career and his methodological
approach is given, which had a significant influence on: his
sociology in general and his view of exchange in particular
and can hardly be seen out of context with his exchange
theory.
Romans developed his propositions in the exchange perspective
out of the behavioristic psychology and elementary economics
and used the same propositions to explain social phenomena
such as interaction and the elaboration of interaction; the
group, conformity, cooperation and competition; power and
authority; status and leadership; status, conformity and
stratification as well as satisfaction and distributive
justice in terms of exchange between at least two persons who
reward or punish each others actions.