Relationships: equity theory

Question 1

Whats the difference between equity and equality?

Answer 1

Equity and equality are two strategies we can use in an effort to produce fairness.
Equity is giving everyone what they need to be successful.
Equality is treating everyone the same.
Equality aims to promote fairness, but it can only work if everyone starts from the same place - which is unlikely

Question 2

Describe equity theory

Answer 2

An economic model of R/ships based on the idea of fairness for each partner

Emphasises the need for each partner to experience a balance between their cost/effort and their benefit/reward.
i.e both partners profit is roughly the same. IT’S A RATIO

Individuals become dissatisfied with R/ships if they feel they are suffering from inequity (unfairness)

If they are they over-benefitting or under-benefitting – dissatisfaction occurs.
In other words, when partners feel they put in more than they receive, or they receive more than they put in, R/ship considered inequitable & could end

Under benefitting (worse) = anger, hostility, resentment & humiliation
Over benefitting = guilt, comfort shame

Partners will recognize disparity and couples have chances to save their R/ships.

Question 3

Walster stated that equity was based on four principles:

Answer 3

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 sense of dissatisfaction

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