In close relationships, reciprocity shifts from exact exchanges to a broader willingness to meet each other's needs as they arise.

Examples:

• Families and close friends provide support without tracking exact balances.
• In "communal" relationships, the focus is on mutual care rather than equivalent exchange.

Where does this idea come from?

• The Rule of ReciprocationThe Rule of ReciprocationWe feel compelled to repay what another person has provided us. Examples: * People go to great lengths to avoid being seen as freeloaders. * Small initiating favors can increase compliance, even with those we dislike. Where does this idea come from? * Social norms * Cultural expectations of fairness What's similar to this idea? * No such thing as a free lunch * Give-and-take * The psychology of indebtedness What's opposite of this idea? * Don't-back-down * Self-sufficiency Where does t
• Relationship Dynamics

What's similar to this idea?

• Altruism in relationships
• Unconditional support

What's opposite of this idea?

• Tit-for-tat approach
• Transactional relationships

Status: #idea
Tags: relationships, reciprocity, trust

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References

Influence by Robert B. Cialdini > Chapter 2