Equity theory Flashcards
(17 cards)
What type of theory is equity theory?
It is an economic theory
How is equity theory different to social exchange theory?
It suggests most people have the need for balance in relationships, rather than profit as SET would suggest
What does equity mean?
It means fairness not equality
What matters the most with equity?
Both partners’ level of profit is roughly the same for each partner
How is equity not the same as equality?
It is not the same as equality as the costs and rewards do not have to be the same for each partner
What would be considered equitable?
A partner putting a lot of effort into a relationship but also gets a lot out of it. this would make them feel satisfied and maintain the relationship
What is there a strong correlation between?
There’s a strong correlation between percieved equtiy and relationship satisfaction
If there is inequity then there will be…
dissatisfaction
Give an example of inequity
If one partner over benefits and the other partner under benefits then dissatisfaction is likely to occur
There’s a strong correlation between percieved inequity and…
relationship dissatisfaction
What is the overbenefitted partner likely to feel?
Guilt, discomfort, shame
How is the underbenefitted partner likely to feel?
Anger, hostility, resentment and humiliation
How does the overbenefitted partner often deal with inequality?
They are usually motivated to make the relationship more equitable if they believe it is possible and it is salvageable
What may change due to inequity?
Behavioural changes in the couple
How may inequity be dealt with?
It may be changed through cognitive changes from the underbenefitted partner
What may partners chsnge their perception on?
They may change their perceptions of rewards and costs, so the relationship feels more equitable, even if nothing changes
What is an example of changing perceptions of rewards and costs?
Untidiness could have been a major cost at the beginning of the relationship resulting in inequity, however, the underbenefitted partner may revise this cost and now accept the untidiness as a norm
