Ruth spends all day taking care of her three children. She i…

Ruth spends all day taking care of her three children. She is constantly trying to solve problems that they cause and keep everything on track and frequently feels unhappy and stressed out. At dinner, Ruth’s friend says she looks completely exhausted and unhappy. Ruth thinks for a moment, then shrugs and says “it’s all worth it in the end.” According to the lecture, what social psychological principle best explains Ruth’s reaction to this situation?