In this paper, I introduce the concept of pseudo-formality as a novel form of relational work in economic sociology. Pseudo-formality refers to the performative use of formal aesthetics, such as contracts and repayment plans, in financial exchanges between close ties—as both parties tacitly understand that the agreement is flexible and not legally binding. I argue that pseudo-formality works by leveraging the signaling function of formal market elements in a way that contradicts their typical purpose, allowing for the compartmentalization of the economic and social aspects of the exchange. Through two complementary vignette experiments, I demonstrate that pseudo-formal framing enhances the perceived dignity of the recipient and the respect conveyed by the giver, compared to formal, informal, or gift-based arrangements. This effect partially mediates the relationship between the type of exchange and its overall acceptability. This research contributes to relational work perspectives in economic sociology by identifying a prevalent but understudied strategy for navigating the intersection of intimacy and economy, and highlights the adaptability of economic forms for relational purposes. The findings have practical implications for interpersonal exchanges as well as the design of financial assistance programs and policies, suggesting that pseudo-formal structures can provide a dignified and empowering means of support.

中文翻译：

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既不是礼物也不是贷款：在亲密关系和经济的交汇处战略性地使用伪形式


在本文中，我将伪形式性的概念作为经济社会学中一种新颖的关系工作形式。伪形式是指在密切关系之间的金融交易中对形式美学（如合同和还款计划）的表演性使用——因为双方都默认该协议是灵活的，不具有法律约束力。我认为，伪形式主义的工作原理是利用正式市场要素的信号功能，以一种与其典型目的相矛盾的方式，允许将交易所的经济和社会方面划分开来。通过两个互补的小插图实验，我证明了与正式、非正式或基于礼物的安排相比，伪正式框架增强了接受者的感知尊严和送礼者所传达的尊重。这种效应部分中介了交换类型与其整体可接受性之间的关系。本研究通过确定一种普遍但未被充分研究的策略来驾驭亲密关系和经济的交叉点，并强调了经济形式对关系目的的适应性，从而为经济社会学中的关系工作观点做出了贡献。这些发现对人际交往以及财政援助计划和政策的设计具有实际意义，表明伪正规结构可以提供一种有尊严和赋权的支持手段。