theories on relationships : equity theory

Question 1

what are 4 things you could talk about in equity theory

Answer 1

1. role of equity
2. equality
3. consequence of inequity
4. evaluation

Question 2

who made equity theory?
what does equity mean?
what happens when there is lack of equity in relationships?

Answer 2

Walster 1978
equity means fairness.

when there is lack of equity this one partner over benefits and the other under benefits in cost and rewards. this leads the relationship to have dissatisfaction.

Question 3

what is equality?

Answer 3

in equity theory, it not the size of the rewards and cost that matter but it’s the ratio between the two. so, if one of the partners puts a lot into the relationship but also gets a lot out of the relationship that would seem fair.

Question 4

what does consequence of inequity mean?
what are two consequences of inequity?

Answer 4

when one partner puts a lot into the relationship but gets a little out of it.

1. changed in perceived equity: for e.g in the beginning of the relationship it might be normal for partner to contribute more than what they receive but as time goes on the begin to feel unsatisfied.
2. dealing with equity: how the partners react to inequity. the partner who doesn’t put in much has to make sure they make it equal.

Question 5

what is evaluation?
3 strengths

Answer 5

canary 2006 found that partners who perceived their relationships as fair and balanced experience the most satisfaction. this supports equity theory as they say in order to have a happy relationship, they must be satisfied.

Brosnan and de Waal 2003 in a study of cupchin monkeys they found when monkeys were denied the rewards (grapes) for playing a game they became very angry suggesting that importance in equity in relationship has ancient origins.

Utne et al measured equity and satisfaction in married couples. they had 118 16-45 years couples. they found that they more they said their relationship was equitable more they were satisfied.