Toward a Theory of Role Accumulation

Abstract

The assumption that multiplicity of roles produces a strong tendency toward as a consequence of conflict or overload is disputed. The benefits of accumulation tend to outweigh any stress to which it might give rise, thereby yielding net gratification. Four types of rewards derived from accumulation are discussed: role-privileges; overall status security; resources for status enhancement and performance; and enrichment of the personality and ego gratification. The importance of taking rights more fully into account in research and theory is emphasized. The possibility that barriers to accumulation are a source of social instability is briefly assayed. A key assumption underlies current theories of social roles-that multiple relationships with diverse partners is a source of psychological stress and social instability. Goode (1960:485) in particular supports this viewpoint, although it is more or less implicit in the writings of most theorists. Goode introduced the term role strain to signify the difficulty of performing multiple roles, asserting that the resultant tendency toward is a ubiquitous feature of social life.