Equity Theory

• Equity Theory (Walster et al., 1978):


  • A theory of romantic relationships suggesting that individuals experience the most satisfaction when there is fairness (equity) between what they put into the relationship (inputs) and what they get out of it (outputs).
• Inputs:

  • Contributions a partner makes in a relationship, such as effort, time, emotional support, money, or household responsibilities.
• Outputs:

  • Rewards received in a relationship, including love, emotional support, intimacy, financial stability, and companionship.
• Equity vs. Equality:

  • Equity does not mean both partners receive the exact same rewards, but rather that their ratios of inputs to outputs are balanced.
• Inequity:


  • When one partner perceives an imbalance in the relationship, feeling either under-benefited or over-benefited.
• Restoring Equity:

  If a relationship is perceived as inequitable, partners will attempt to restore fairness through:

  • Adjusting their own or their partner’s contributions (e.g., increasing or decreasing effort).
  • Changing perceptions of fairness (e.g., convincing themselves the inequity is acceptable).
  • Ending the relationship if the imbalance is too severe.
• Principles of Equity Theory:

  Fair Distribution of Rewards and Costs:

  • Satisfaction is highest when both partners feel the relationship is fair in terms of what they give and receive.
  • Eg: If one partner contributes more (e.g., financially), they should receive more in another area (e.g., emotional support).
• Principles of Equity Theory:

  Consequences of Inequity:

  • Under-benefited partners experience:
  • Resentment, anger, dissatisfaction, and frustration.
  • Over-benefited partners may feel:
  • Guilt, discomfort, and shame.
• Principles of Equity Theory:

  Dissatisfaction and Relationship Breakdown:

  • Prolonged inequity leads to dissatisfaction, and partners will attempt to restore equity.
  • If efforts fail, relationship breakdown may occur.
• Principles of Equity Theory:

  Equity in Long-Term vs. Short-Term Relationships:

  • Short-term relationships may focus on immediate reciprocity.
  • Long-term relationships prioritize ongoing fairness rather than immediate balance.
• Stafford & Canary– Equity and Relationship Satisfaction


  Aim:

  • To investigate the role of equity in relationship satisfaction and maintenance strategies.

  Method:

  • Sample: 200 married couples.
  • Participants completed questionnaires measuring:
  • Perceived equity in their relationship.
  • Relationship satisfaction.
  • Use of maintenance strategies (e.g., positivity, assurances, sharing tasks).
• Stafford & Canary– Equity and Relationship Satisfaction

  Findings:

  • Most satisfied couples perceived high equity in their relationships.
  • Under-benefited partners were least satisfied and engaged in fewer maintenance behaviors.
  • Over-benefited partners were more satisfied than under-benefited partners, but still less satisfied than those in equitable relationships.

  Conclusion:

  • Equity is crucial for relationship satisfaction.
  • Inequity leads to dissatisfaction, and under-benefited partners engage less in maintaining the relationship.