Equity theory

• What is the main focus of Equity theory?

  Fairness in relationships

  
• How does equity differ from equality?

  Equity is about fairness, equality is sameness
• What are the key differences between equity and equality?

  • Equality = Sameness
  • Equity = Fairness
• Why might a person feel dissatisfied in a relationship?

  They give more than they receive
• What might cause dissatisfaction if one partner feels overbenefitted?

  They feel they are giving less than receiving
• What does equity focus on in relationships?

  The fairness of the ratios of inputs and outputs
• How can a disabled partner still maintain equity in a relationship?

  By compensating in other areas
• What might happen if one partner fears inequity?

  They may change their inputs and outputs
• How does perceived inequity affect relationships?

  It negatively impacts relationship satisfaction
• What is the correlation between perceived inequity and dissatisfaction?

  Stronger perceived inequity leads to greater dissatisfaction
• What happens when inequity is perceived in a relationship?

  Dissatisfaction occurs
• What might a partner do at the start of a relationship regarding contributions?

  They may contribute more than they receive
• What can lead to dissatisfaction as a relationship develops?

  One partner continues to give more
• How might a partner restore perceived equity?

  By changing their inputs or outputs
• What motivates the underbenefitted partner to restore equity?

  Belief that the relationship is salvageable
• What makes restoring equity more difficult?

  The greater the perceived inequity
• What type of change might occur to restore equity?

  Cognitive rather than behavioral changes
• How might a dissatisfied partner revise their perceptions?

  By viewing costs as acceptable norms
• What should a Wikipedia page on Equity theory include?

  1. Effective AO1 of how the theory explains relationships
  2. Links or connections to other topics
• What research supports Equity theory?

  Utne et al (1984) survey findings
• What did Utne et al (1984) find about equitable relationships?

  Equitable relationships lead to greater satisfaction
• What is a weakness of Equity theory regarding cultural validity?

  It may not be valid in all cultures
• What individual differences challenge Equity theory?

  Huseman et al (1987) findings