Equity Theory TheoryHub Academic theories reviews for research and T&L
In collectivist cultures, where group harmony is prioritized over individual needs, perceptions of equity may differ from those in individualistic cultures. This highlights the importance of considering cultural nuances when applying Equity Theory in diverse social environments. If one partner lies and then rationalizes the lie, the erosion of trust can damage the intimate connection between the partners. Trust is foundational in intimate relationships, and cognitive dissonance can undermine it by fostering deceit and rationalization. A person who sees themselves as a supportive partner might ignore their partner’s complaints about feeling unsupported, thereby reinforcing a pattern of invalidation and frustration as cognitive dissonance can perpetuate negative interaction patterns. To escape the discomfort of acknowledging relationship issues, individuals might downplay problems or convince themselves that the issues are not significant.
Components of the equity theory of motivation
The need to reduce cognitive dissonance can reinforce negative patterns within a relationship. When individuals experience dissonance, they might double down on negative behaviors to maintain consistency with their beliefs. For example, a partner who believes they are always right might consistently dismiss their partner’s valid concerns, perpetuating cycles cognitive dissonance and addiction of conflict and misunderstanding. One of the most significant negative impacts of cognitive dissonance in romantic relationships is the justification of harmful behaviors. When one partner engages in actions that hurt the other, they may rationalize their behavior to reduce the dissonance between their actions and their self-image as a caring partner.
- When our friends or partners act contrary to our beliefs and values, we perceive dissonance.
- By understanding these five foundational principles, it is possible to better grasp the intricate complexities of equity and inequity in various relational contexts, and thereby gain insights into managing interpersonal dynamics more effectively.
- Following Taylor and Fiske’s cognitive miser perspective, social perceivers were viewed as taking various mental shortcuts (below), schemas among them.
- The theory aims to provide insights into relational satisfaction based on the concept of perceived fairness.
- If a person’s motivation and ability to think are very high, however, then expertise should not affect attitudes or compliance since they will be based primarily on a careful evaluation of the issue-relevant arguments presented.
- Thus, students change their attitudes in order to reduce cognitive inconsistency between their attitudes (‘I don’t like the idea of a tuition increase’) and behaviors (‘I wrote an essay supporting it’).
Key Concepts of Equity Theory
If an inequity is perceived to exist based on ratios, then the employee will adjust their inputs accordingly. The major critique arose due to Equity Theory not being able to explain all instances of social relations. Equity theorists have been criticised for claiming the applicability of the theory to a broader domain, without, though, providing justification for such assumptions. Specifically, it has been argued that Equity Theory mostly refers to situations with a more economic nature and a context denoting competitive relations (Romer, 1977). Such a conclusion comes from the first assumption of the theory, which postulates that people in social exchange relations strive to maximise personal benefits, disregarding the cooperative relations people may engage in (Walster, Berscheid & Walster, 1973; Adams, 1963). To provide insight into the role of social factors in cost-benefit evaluation, a recent study was conducted, which found a strong positive impact of social group identity on equity evaluation (Davlembayeva, Papagiannidis & Alamanos, 2021).
Social Comparison Theory
After engaging in the campaigning, the person may experience dissonance in connection with having publicly supported a candidate whom he or she did not previous like very much and try to reduce the dissonance by deciding that he or she really likes the candidate. From a self-perception position, the person simply “looks back” and sees that he or she decided https://ecosoberhouse.com/ to do the campaigning without much pressure. Hence, the person may conclude that he or she “must really like the candidate.” Each of these conceptions may be viable in various arenas when people take actions that are counter attitudinal in nature. One way people respond to the discomfort experienced in ethical dissonance is through justification.
- This produces a feeling of mental discomfort leading to an alteration in one of the attitudes, beliefs, or behaviors to reduce the discomfort and restore balance.
- According to this theory, employees maintain a mental record, akin to a ‘ledger,’ that keeps track of what they contribute to their job and what they receive in return.
- One key aspect of Equity Theory is the notion of “referent others,” which are individuals against whom a person compares themselves to assess fairness.
- Social Exchange Theory postulates that social relations are rooted in subjective evaluation of the costs and benefits of participating in relations (Blau, 1986; Homans, 1961).