Theories of romantic relationships: Equity theory

Question 1

who proposed the equity theory

Answer 1

Walster et al

Question 2

define equity theory

Answer 2

Economic theory of how relationships develop. it acknowledges the impact of rewards and costs on relationship satisfaction, but criticises the SET for ignoring the central role of equity- the perception that partners have the distribution of rewards and costs in the relationship is fair.

Question 3

Role of equity

Answer 3

Means fairness and according to Walster et al what matters the most with equity is that both partners’ level of profit is roughly the same. When equity lacks one partner overbenefits and the other underbenefits from the relationship and results in dissatisfaction.

Underbenefitted= greatest dissatisfaction e.g. anger, resentment and humiliation

Overbenefitted= more likely to feel guilty, discomfort and shame.

Question 4

Principles of equity

Answer 4

-Profit-rewards are maximised and costs minimised.

-Distribution- Trade offs and compensations are negotiated to achieve fairness in a relationship

-Dissatisfaction-The greater the degree of perceived unfairness, the greater the sense of dissatisfaction

-Realignment- If restoring equity is possible, maintenance will continue, with attempts made to realign equity.

Question 5

Consequences of inequity

Answer 5

Problems arise when one partner puts a lot into a relationship but gets little out of it. The greater the perceived inequity, the greater the dissatisfaction. Applies to both under and over benefited.

Question 6

Dealing with inequity

Answer 6

The put upon partner will work hard to make relationship more equitable. The more unfair the relationship feels, the harder they work to restore equity.

Another possible outcome is a cognitive one. The couple will revise their perceptions of rewards and costs so that relationship feels more equitable. What was once seen as a cost of the relationship becomes an accepted norm.