Stuck in the Airport

I write this from an airport where I have been sitting since 5am ET-one of those travel experiences, I guess. This is also my first mobile blog post-hope it all works out!

In reading about the politeness theory, especially the example of Josephine, I feel this theory is very indirect. I see the need to save face and I am sure I have done it before yet if I want to switch a shift with someone I am going to come out and ask. No one enjoys being in an embarrassing situation and I can see how this theory would look to address that. Although, it would seem one would need to 'save face' after the communication has occurred.

I really like the Social Exchange Theory. I feel like I have used this theory often and didn't realize it until now. Two examples come to mind-the first is with friendships and the other is dating relationships. With various life experiences, travels and activities I have done in my life, there are many people I have meet and friendships created. It has been rather recently that I am paying more attention to those relationships-looking at the rewards versus the costs. Previously, I felt I had to do everything to maintain and strengthen those relationships. Many times that would be one-sided and I would be discouraged or hurt by the efforts I put in with little in return. Now I look at these relationships more closely and put in the amount of time and effort that I am comfortable with. I don't take it so personally when my efforts are not reciprocate. On the other hand, in dating relationships, I try to 'make it work' almost ignoring the cost to me completely! I know I do this and try to understand it all the time. Using the SET, my prediction may be 'dissatisfied' (outcomes<cl), yet I continue. If that were the case in a friendship, I would look to make a change.