Equity Theory

• Which theory developed from SET and to include what feature the SET is missing?

  Equity theory- to include fairness and balance
• Which stage (beginning/established) of a relationship can the SET not be applied to as easily?

  The honeymoon period ie the early stages

  • suggested that costs are not taken into account is this stage in a relationship
• what does SET more likely apply to?

  Insecure relationships rather than secure relationships

  • those that are likely to keep scores - perhaps lacking in trust rather than those that are secure
• Who proposed equity theory?

  Waltser et al
• What does equity theory say?

  People strive to achieve fairness in their relationships
• What is SET missing?

  Equity - this is the idea that you still put a lot into a relationship and be happy (ie it 'costs' a lot) BUT as long as there is a perceived sense of fairness
• What is equity theory?

  an economic model BUT equity is the focus in maintaining relationships
• What 4 principles is equity based on?

  • profit
  • distribution
  • dissatisfaction
  • realignment
• describe one of the 4 principles that equity is based on - profit?

  Rewards maximised and costs maintained
• describe one of the 4 principles that equity is based on - distribution?

  Trade-offs and compensations are negotiated to achieve fairness in a relationship
• describe one of the 4 principles that equity is based on - dissatisfaction?

  The greater the degree of perceived unfairness- greater sense of dissatisfaction
• describe one of the 4 principles that equity is based on - realignment?


  if restoring equity is possible, maintenance will continue with attempts to realign equity
• Equity theory is an extension of what?

  Extension of SET but argues we drive for fairness
• what does any inequity (giving or receiving) lead to?

  dissatisfaction ; maintenance requires equity
• equity is not what?

  equity is not equality ; it is a subjective opinion of the individuals and their perceived ratio of inputs and outputs. Both must feel that their costs/ benefits are equitable and if so, the relationship will be maintained
• fairness does not mean what?

  fairness does not mean everyone gets the same. they get what they need