equity theory

• What is the main focus of equity theory in romantic relationships?

  Perception of fairness in rewards and costs
• How does equity theory differ from social exchange theory?

  Equity theory emphasizes fairness over actual rewards
• What might happen if one partner feels underbenefited in a relationship?

  They may become dissatisfied and distressed
• What is the key concept of equity in romantic relationships?

  • Equity means fairness in relationships
  • Partners' levels of profit should be roughly equal
  • Perception of fairness is crucial for satisfaction
• Who proposed the equity theory in romantic relationships?

  Elaine Walster and her colleagues
• What does it mean when a partner is overbenefited?

  They receive more rewards than they contribute
• How does inequity affect the emotional state of partners?

  It leads to distress and dissatisfaction
• What are the consequences of perceived inequity in relationships?

  • Distress for the underbenefited partner
  • Guilt for the overbenefited partner
  • Potential for dissatisfaction and unhappiness
• What is the difference between equity and equality in relationships?

  Equity focuses on fair balance, not equal rewards
• What happens to perceived equity over time in relationships?

  It can change, affecting satisfaction levels
• How might a partner react to feelings of inequity?

  They may work harder to restore equity
• What does research by Stafford and Canary (2006) suggest about equity theory?

  • Satisfaction is highest in equitable relationships
  • Overbenefited partners are less satisfied than equitable ones
  • Underbenefited partners are the most dissatisfied
• How do cultural influences affect perceptions of equity in relationships?

  Different cultures may prioritize equity differently
• What are 'benevolents' and 'entitleds' in equity theory?

  Benevolents contribute more; entitleds expect more
• What is the significance of Argyle's (1988) claim about casual relationships?

  • Casual relationships do not focus on costs and rewards
  • Equity is more important than equality in serious relationships
  • Equality does not predict satisfaction in casual relationships
• What did Berg and McQuinn (1986) find regarding equity in relationships?

  Equity did not increase over time in couples
• What limitations does equity theory have according to individual differences?

  • Not all partners care about equity
  • Some individuals are less sensitive to equity
  • Equity is not a universal feature of all relationships
• How might Ricky and Carlos' relationship challenge equity theory?

  Ricky feels entitled while Carlos is benevolent
• What is event sampling in research?

  Recording specific behaviors during events
• Why is a pilot study important in research?

  It helps identify issues before the main study
• How can inter-observer reliability be improved in research?

  Training observers to ensure consistent coding
• What does the term 'equity' refer to in romantic relationships?

  Fairness in the distribution of rewards and costs
• Briefly outline equity theory.

  It emphasizes fairness in rewards and costs
• Outline one study that supports equity theory.

  Stafford and Canary's study on married couples
• Discuss the equity theory of romantic relationships.

  It explains satisfaction based on perceived fairness