Equity theory

• Equity theory

  -Proposed by Walster which addressed the limitations of social equity.

  -It's an 'economic theory' (relationships which involve exchanges) which agrees with SET.

  -They argue that the most satisfied and stable relationships are fair and equitable.

  -Rewards received are proportionate to the costs you have invested. Equitable exchanges in relationship makes you feel satisfied.
• Two types of inequitable exchanges


  -Individual puts in high cost and receives low reward. They are dissatisfied as they are under benefitting.

  -Individual gets high reward and invests low costs (no time and little effort). They are dissatisfied and are over benefiting from these exchanges as may feel guilt and shame.
• Inequitable exchanges

  -The couple is motivated to restore equity and fairness as don't want either partner to be dissatisfied.

  -Behavioural changes: decrease cost and increase reward of the under benefitting partner.

  -Cognitive change: the individual changes the way they perceive cost and reward.