Why very nice people could be less popular in society?

Are you a nice person, yet not many people like you? I did a short research on what could be a reason behind this phenomenon. How some psychological theories can enlight us? Please read further to find out.

Social Exchange Theory on being nice

Social Exchange theory was developed by George Homans in the 1950s.

According to Social Exchange Theory, life in society is a game where people exchange, for example, social support, companionship, and other resources. If someone is more of a giver and receives less or not at all, it causes an unacceptable imbalance.

This lack of harmony can lead the giver to feel used or resentful and the receiver to feel entitled or dependent, and as a result, it is not a healthy relationship.

This can, in turn, affect the relationship and the popularity of the ‘nice person.’

Self-Determination Theory on being nice

Self-Determination theory was developed by Edward L. Deci and Richard M. Ryan in the 1980s and 1990s.

The Self-Determination Theory states that people want autonomy, relatedness, and competence.