Equity Theory

Question 1

Equity theory

Answer 1

Walster

• underbenefit = anger/overbenefit = guilt leads to dissatisfaction
• satisfaction = perceived fairness
• ratio of cost and reward of both partner

Question 2

Consequence of inequity

Answer 2

• strong correlation between inequity and dissatisfaction
• distress and dissatisfaction if perceived inequity
• underbenefitted partner tries to restore equity
  OR
• cost gradually becomes norm

Question 3

Support

Answer 3

Utne
- Survey of 118 newly married couple with 2 self report scales
- found that couple who perceive equity are more satisfied

Question 4

Dissatisfaction

Answer 4

Berg and McQuinn
- equity doesn’t increase over time which contradicts theory
- other variables e.g. self disclosure were significantly more important
- Undermines validity

Question 5

Cultural limitations

Answer 5

• Individualist culture (US) satisfaction = equity
• Collectivist culture (Jamaica) satisfaction = overbenefiting
• theory only applies to some cultures

Question 6

Individual differences

Answer 6

Huseman
- benevolents: people prepared to underbenefit
- entitleds: believe they deserve to overbenefit and don’t feel distressed
- desire for equity isn’t universal

Question 7

Cause or effect

Answer 7

Grote and Clark: a soon as partners monitor contribution sign of dissatisfaction. Once dissatisfaction sets in partners notice inequities and become more dissatisfied
- cycle of misery

Question 8

Silly Dogs Chase Invisible Cats

Answer 8

Support
Dissatisfaction
Cultural limits
Individual difference
Cause or effect