Maintenance- Equity theory

Question 1

proposed by

Answer 1

Walster et al

Question 2

Inequity and distress

Answer 2

Assumes people strive to achieve fairness in relationships. Distressed if perceive unfairness- disatisfied

Question 3

Ratio of inputs to outputs

Answer 3

What is considered fair= subjective opionions of partners. Benefits- minus costs same for each- still equitable if one gives less as long as receives less.

Question 4

Perceiv inequality

Answer 4

Motivated to restore by changing amount we put in/ demand from relationship

Question 5

Application

Answer 5

Relationship therapy. Integrated couples behaviour therapy based on increasing proportion of positive exhanges- break inequitable behaviour patterns. Christenson- 60 couples 2/3 improved

Question 6

Gender differences

Answer 6

Men and women view equity differently. Steil and Weltman- married working couples where men earned more- both view his job as more important. wife earns more= still judge his job more important- inequality and relationship works

Question 7

Reductionist

Answer 7

Insufficiently explains successful marriage- not a business parntership- governed by desire to respond to needs of partner

Question 8

Research support

Answer 8

Stafford and Canary- 200 coupples measure equity and rel satisfaction +correlation