Social Exchange Theory And Practice Case Studies

Melissa is a young, Jewish, urban professional who grew up in a middle-class suburb in New York. Her dream of having a big wedding at her parents’ country club was about to finally come true. One thing that Melissa and her Fiancé planned to do right after their marriage was to start having children. Melissa felt that she wanted to go get a physical exam to make sure she was in good health to carry a child. The doctor suggested she get tested for HIV as he suggest for all his clients to get test, Melissa agreed not thinking anything would be wrong with her health regarding HIV. Furthermore, two weeks later, after two blood work test Melissa’s HIV results tested positive. Melissa was astonished with the result and she felt she did not need to let her Fiancé know about her being HIV positive, since they always used protection when having sexual intercourse.
Melissa’s family was not aware of the health issue she was suffering from. Considering, that she is Jewish, it could be frowned upon, and her …show more content…
When dealing with an illness it is helpful to have a relationship with an individual for multiple factors such as, dependence of one partner on the other. Having a relationship with someone will help emotional wise, and will also help on trying to figure out on how to better cope with the situation. Hearing individual’s thoughts and point of views can often help someone in need of emotional stress. Furthermore, humans are rational individuals, capable of making decisions once the pros and cons of the situation are well understood. Social exchange theory, can relate to Melissa due to the fact that it will be important for her to have a relationship with someone. It does not necessarily have to be family or friends it can be a therapist, doctors, or even co-workers as long as one does not feel like they are facing the situation by