Theories Of Romantic Relationships Equity Theory Flashcards
Also an economic theory and extends ideas of SET
Suggests what is missing from SET is the perception of equity (fairness)
Walster suggests that matters most is that both partners level of profit (rewards-cost) is roughly the same
Any relationship perceived as equitable will be satisfying and therefore is likely to be maintained
Any relationship perceived as inequitable can result in dissatisfaction and therefore less likely to be maintained
Consequences of inequity/unfairness
Relationships that lack equity are associated with two distinct types of dissatisfaction
Over benefitting and under benefitting
Feeling over benefitted
Have a high level of profit by putting little into the relationship but getting a lot out of it ie rewards outweigh the costs
Could lead to guilt
Feeling under benefitted
Low level of profit by putting lots of effort into the relationship but getting very little out of it ie costs outweighing the rewards
Leads to feelings of exploitation
The greater the inequity, the greater the dissatisfaction and stress
And the more motivated they are to do something about it
Dealing with inequity
Restore actual equity
Voluntary set things right or urge partner to do so.
Dealing with inequity
Restore psychological equity
Distort reality and convince yourself that things are fair
Dealing with inequity
Leave relationship
Divorce or no longer have feelings for the partner
Supporting evidence for equity theory from studies of real life relationships which add validity to the explanation of SET
Mary Utne survey 118 newly married couples measuring equity on self report scale
Couples who perceived their relationship as equitable more satisfied than those who saw themselves as under benefitting
Confirms central prediction of equity theory increasing the validity
Doesn’t account for cultural differences
Researchers compared couples in collectivist culture with individualist culture
Couples in individualistic culture most satisfied when relationship was equitable whereas collectivists preferred over benefitting.
Suggests the theory is limited as it claims equity is a universal need when it can be unwarranted
Individual differences not taken into account because of its basic on the norm of quality which assumes that…
Everybody is equally sensitive to equity and inequity
Huserman et al developed idea of equity sensitivity which determines the extent to which individuals tolerate inequity and developed three categories of individuals: benevolents, equity sensitives and entitleds.
Two categories challenge (only one accordance from the equity sensitive) the equity theory
Invalidates the norm of equality as a basis of information
