Equity Theory Flashcards
Research support:
-Evidence for the role of equity in successful relationships was found by Utne et al (1984).
-They conducted a survey of 118 recently married couples who had been together two years prior to marriage.
-Two self-report measures were used to assess equity and it was found that couples who considered their relationship to be equitable were significantly more satisfied than those who reported themselves to be over or under-
benefitting from their relationship. Additionally, Stafford and Canary (2006) conducted a study on over 200 married couples who completed questionnaires on relationship equity and satisfaction.
They found that partners who perceived their relationships as fair and balanced experienced the most satisfaction.
-These research studies support the fundamental principles
of equity theory and suggests it is not only a valid explanation of romantic relationships, but
a better account than social exchange theory.
Cultural bias:
-There is a strong argument that Equity theory is culturally biased in its explanation of relationships. -Miell and Croghan (1996) argue that equity principles reflect the
values of western, individualist cultures; thus suggesting that the link between equity and
satisfaction is not a universal feature of relationships.
-This was supported by Aumer-Ryan et al (2007) who found couples from individualistic cultures (US) were most satisfied when their
relationships were equitable, however, those from collectivist cultures (Jamaica) were more
satisfied when they were over-benefitting from a relationship; this was regardless of whether
they were male or female. -Therefore, it can be argued that equity theory has limited scope as
it cannot fully account for cultural differences.
Gender differences in equity
-One issue with equity theory is it does not account for gender
differences in attitudes towards fairness.
-Researchers have suggested there are significant differences in the way women and men perceive the equitability of a relationship. -Women are more likely to be disturbed by being under-benefitted and feel more guilty when they are over-benefitted.
-This was supported by Van Yperen and Buunk (1990) who found a much stronger correlation between satisfaction and equity for women (r=0.44) than for men (r=0.2).
-These findings have been explained as a consequence of socialisation; women are raised to be more
relationship focussed and thus are likely to be more sensitive to injustices.
-It is argued until equity theory can address these gender inconsistencies, it lacks in explanatory power.
