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Reciprocity Amongst College Students

Thesis Abstract: Individuals frequently provide and repay favors for others, known as reciprocity. Previous research has investigated how different forms of reciprocity can impact the incentive provided to the individual completing the favor and how culture can impact reciprocal choices. Forty-five college students were presented with an array of situations representing favors they may have both their friends and acquaintances complete. Participants then indicated how they would repay these favors. Based on this research, individuals will select reciprocity, which avoids a monetary value and which has a delayed response rather than immediate repayment. Additionally, individuals will treat friends and acquaintances from their organizations similarly only with major differences occurring primarily for large favors. In this case, individuals will spend more on acquaintances and will rely on only verbal thank yous for friends.

"In the goal of promoting effective teamwork, asking for and fulfilling favors is vital and as explored, is easier attained long-term in communal relationships."

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