Relationships - equity theory

Question 1

what is equity theory

Answer 1

• idea of having balance rather than profit

Question 2

what is the role of equity

Answer 2

• equity = fairness
• both partners level of profit is the same
• lack of equity one overbenefits and one underbenefits

Question 3

what are the consequences of inequity

Answer 3

• one partner puts a great deal in and the other gets little out of it
• greater inequity greater dissatisfaction

Question 4

how do partners deal with inequity

Answer 4

• underbenefitter is more motivated to make the relationship work

Question 5

what are the strengths of equity theory

Answer 5

Utne et al (1984)
- survey of 118 recently married couples used 2 self report techniques
- couples who saw their relationship as equitable were more satisfied

Question 6

what are the limitations of equity theory

Answer 6

Cultural limitations
- couples from individualistic cultures considered their relationship to be most satisfying when the relationship was equitable
- collectivist cultures considered relationship to be most satisfying when overbenefitting

Huseman et al (1987)
- some people are less concerned about equity than the ‘norm’
- some are benevolent - contribute more
- some are entitled - believe they deserve more