equity theory

equity theory

developed from social exchange theory.
1. fails to take into account the need most people have for balance
over benefiting partner = feel shame, pity and guilt towards another partner
1. under benefiting partner = resentful, angry at other partner
Walster - both partners level of profit roughly the same
economic theory of how relationship developed. acknowledge the impact of rewards and costs on relationship satisfaction.
role of equity - the perception that partners have about whether the distribution of rewards and costs in the relationship if fair
ratio to each other
A03
1. Mary Utne = survey on 118 recently married ages 16-45. findings: couples that considered their relationship equitable were more satisfied than those who saw themselves under benefiting or over benefiting, supports fact that balance is linked with satisfaction
2. cultural limitation= individualistic cultures most satisfied when relationship to be equitable. collectivist culture (Jamaica) were most satisfied when they were over benefiting. suggests theory is limited as only applies to some cultures
3. individual differences - Huseman suggest some people are less concerned about equity than the 'norm' some people prepared to give more than they receive and others feel no guilt when over benefitted. shows that desire for equity varies from one individual to another

Resource summary

	Created by Romany Tune over 3 years ago