8. RELATIONSHIPS (Theories of Romantic Relationships - Equity Theory) Flashcards
What is the main idea of Equity Theory in relationships?
Equity Theory suggests that people are most comfortable when the benefits they receive from a relationship are roughly equal to the costs they put in.
Why was Equity Theory developed?
It was developed in response to Social Exchange Theory, which focuses on profit, whereas Equity Theory emphasizes balance and fairness in relationships.
How does inequity affect relationships?
Inequity leads to dissatisfaction. Over-benefited individuals may feel guilt and shame, while under-benefited individuals may experience anger, sadness, and resentment.
What are the three ways people attempt to restore equity in relationships according to Hatfield and Rapson (2011)?
- Restoration of actual equity – adjusting contributions or urging the partner to do so.
- Restoration of psychological equity – distorting perceptions to believe the relationship is fair.
- Leaving the relationship – physically (e.g., divorce) or emotionally withdrawing.
What study provides supporting evidence for Equity Theory?
Stafford and Canary’s study, where over 200 married couples completed questionnaires on equity and relationship satisfaction.
What were the findings of Stafford and Canary’s study?
Satisfaction was highest in equitable relationships, followed by over-benefited partners. Under-benefited partners were least satisfied and engaged in fewer relationship maintenance strategies.
What is a key strength of Equity Theory?
The supporting evidence from Stafford and Canary’s study adds validity to the theory by showing that perceived equity is an important determinant of marital satisfaction.
What is one limitation of Equity Theory related to individual differences?
Huseman (1987) identified three types of individuals: benevolents (tolerate under-benefit), equity sensitives (prefer fairness), and entitleds (prefer over-benefit), showing that people respond differently to inequity.
Why is individual difference a limitation of Equity Theory?
The theory assumes everyone values equity equally, but individual differences suggest it is too simplistic and may not apply to all relationships.
How does cultural bias challenge Equity Theory?
Aumer-Ryan (2007) found that individualist cultures (USA) preferred equity, while collectivist cultures (Jamaica) were most satisfied when over-benefitting, indicating cultural differences in relationship satisfaction.
Why is cultural bias a limitation of Equity Theory?
The theory is ethnocentric, applying mainly to Western cultures, and may not be universally valid.
What is a criticism of Equity Theory regarding the direction of causation?
It is unclear whether inequity causes dissatisfaction or dissatisfaction leads to the perception of inequity. Grote and Clark (2001) suggest that monitoring contributions is a sign of existing dissatisfaction.
Why is the unclear direction of causation a limitation of Equity Theory?
If dissatisfaction leads to inequity rather than the other way around, it challenges the validity of Equity Theory’s explanation of relationship satisfaction.
How does Equity Theory compare to Social Exchange Theory?
While Social Exchange Theory focuses on maximizing rewards and minimizing costs, Equity Theory emphasizes fairness and balance in relationships.
What practical applications does Equity Theory have in real-life relationships?
Understanding equity in relationships can help couples identify and address feelings of unfairness, improve communication, and promote long-term relationship satisfaction.
