In Heider's Balance Theory, which scenario represents a balanced state?

The correct answer is 'You like your friend, your friend likes a movie, and you also like the movie.'

Key Points

• Heider's Balance Theory:
  • Heider's Balance Theory is a psychological theory that proposes that people prefer balanced states in their relationships and attitudes.
  • A balanced state occurs when the relationships between the elements (people, objects, ideas) in a triadic relationship (P-O-X) are harmonious.
  • The theory suggests that imbalanced states create psychological discomfort, leading individuals to change their attitudes or relationships to achieve balance.
• Balanced State in the Given Scenario:
  • In the balanced scenario, you like your friend (P-O positive), your friend likes the movie (O-X positive), and you also like the movie (P-X positive).
  • All the relationships are positive, creating a harmonious and balanced state.

Additional Information

• Other Scenarios (Incorrect Options):
  • Option 1: You like your friend, your friend dislikes a movie, and you love the movie.
    • This creates an imbalanced state because there is a mix of positive and negative relationships, causing psychological discomfort.
  • Option 3: You dislike your friend, your friend likes a movie, but you are indifferent to the movie.
    • Indifference does not create a strong enough relationship to balance the negative and positive relationships present.
  • Option 4: You dislike your friend, your friend dislikes the movie, but you love the movie.
    • This scenario is also imbalanced because the positive relationship with the movie conflicts with the negative relationships with the friend and their opinion.