M.A. (Sociology) / Much has been written about Romans' exchange theory, but even though his publication Social Behavior: Its Elementary Forms evoked much reaction and criticism, there has never been an attempt to make a systematic and integrated summary thereof. The objective of this study is to make an extensive study of Romans' view of exchange and his social exchange theory, in which he explains certain social phenomena in terms of exchange behavior. This thesis takes the form of a documentary study of Romans' exchange theory. Most of the books and articles written by various authors about Romans were consulted, with the emphasis falling on works highlighting his exchange theory. To gain perspective as to Romans' individualistic perspective of his exchange theory, a wide range of different perspectives relating to exchange theories were examined. A comprehensive and systematic exposition of Romans' biographical history, academical career and his methodological approach is given, which had a significant influence on: his sociology in general and his view of exchange in particular and can hardly be seen out of context with his exchange theory. Romans developed his propositions in the exchange perspective out of the behavioristic psychology and elementary economics and used the same propositions to explain social phenomena such as interaction and the elaboration of interaction; the group, conformity, cooperation and competition; power and authority; status and leadership; status, conformity and stratification as well as satisfaction and distributive justice in terms of exchange between at least two persons who reward or punish each others actions.