Equity Theory

Description

People are happiest in relationships where the give and take are about equal. If one person is getting too little from the relationship, then not only are they going to be unhappy with this—the person getting the lion’s share will also be feeling rather guilty about this imbalance. This is reinforced by strong social norms about fairness.

In short-term relationships we tend to trade in things, such as loaning small sums or buying beers. In longer-term relationships the trade is more emotional.

Overall, though, it is still better to be getting more than less—although you could feel better about the relationship, the benefits you get from it can buy you compensatory happiness elsewhere.

Equity Theory is also called Inequity Theory as it is the unequal difference that is often the area of interest.

So what?

Using it

If you are getting the short end of the stick in a relationship, use this to make the other person feel even more guilt than they already feel. Get them to focus on the value of the relationship itself rather than the more material things they are getting from it.

Defending

If you are getting what you want from a relationship, resist attempts to change the balance.

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Equity Theory

Description

Example

So what?

Using it

Defending

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Quick links

Disciplines

Techniques

Principles

Explanations

Theories

And