Theories of romantic relationships: Equity theory

Question 1

Equity theory

Answer 1

Economic theory of how relationships develop. Acknowledges the impact of rewards and costs on relationship satisfaction, but criticises social exchange theory for ignoring perception that it needs to be fair

Question 2

Role of equity

Answer 2

Both partners level of of profit needs to be roughly similar, otherwise one over benefits and the other under benefits

Question 3

Equity and equality

Answer 3

What matters is the ratio of rewards to costs: a high level of costs with high level of rewards seen fair

Question 4

Consequences of inequity

Answer 4

Underbenefitted partner motivated to make the relationship more equitable. The perception of inequality matters.

Question 5

Evaluation

Answer 5

Supporting research evidence
Cultural influences 
Individual differences 
Type of relationship
Contradictory research evidence

Question 6

What did Clark and Mills argue as a criticism?

Answer 6

Equity matters more in a non-romantic relationships, less important to romantic satisfaction

Question 7

What did Utne et al find?

Answer 7

Couples in equitable relationship are more satisfied than those who over or under benefit