Relationships: Equity theory Flashcards
what’s the equity theory?
an economic theory which developed in response to criticisim of social exchange theory. maximising rewards and minimising costs is important but all needs to take into account equity.
what’s the role of equity?
equity means fairness. Walster said what mattered most with equity was both partner’s level of profit is the same. a lack of equity means 1 partner overbenefits and the other underbenefits, leading to dissatisfaction of the underbenefitted partner.
what’s equity and equality?
equity is a ratio of rewards and costs to each other. 1 partner needs to put a lot in and get a lot out. satisfying relationships are marked by negotiation to ensure equity.
what’s the consequences of equity?
problems arise when 1 partner puts alot in but gets little out. they become distressed and dissatisfied. the greater the inequity, the greater the dissatisfaction, a strong correlation. the change in perceived equity throws us off, at the start of the relationship it may be equal but becomes more off balance as the relationship develops.
what’s research support for equity theory? (A03)
Utne carried out a survey on 118 recently married couples, meauring equity on 2 self-report scales. couples were between 16-45. they found the couples who considered their relationship equitable were more satisfied. this research confirms the theory.
what’s the cultural influence of equity theory? (A03)
the theory assumes the need for equity is universal. Aumer-Ryan found cultural differences between equity and satisfaction. she compared collectivist (wider group comes first) and individualist (priortises individual). couples in individualist considered their relationship more satisfying when there was equity. collectivist were more satisfied when overbenfitting. this suggests equity isn’t universal.
what’s the individual differences of equity theory?
not everyone is concerned about achieving equity. Huseman suggested some people are less sensitive to equity. some people are seen as benevolent (happy contributing more) and entitled (believe they deserve overbenefitting). this shows equity isn’t a global feature.
