Commitment to a relationship
depends on profitability
Idea is to maximise
profit and minimise
costs
COSTS= Time
wasted, effort,
financial investment
REWARDS= Being
cared for, sex and
companionship
We develop a comparison level (CL). CL is the
standards which all relationships are judged. Its
formed by past relationships and expectations
If profit exceeds the CL, the relationship is
worthwhile and will work
A02
Supporting Evidence...
RUSBULT AND MARTZ- explains why
women stay in abusive relationships.
When investments are high and
alturnatives low (eg no money) could be
considered a profit situation
SIMPSON- asked pps
to rate members of
opposite sex in terms of
attractiveness. Those in
relationships gave
lower rating.
However...
Doesnt explain why people
leave relationships despite
having no alturnative
Focuses too much
on individuals
perspectives and
selfish concerns
LOTT- Doesnt take into
consideration level of
importance. For example
money means more to
women than men.
'Economic Theory'
Equity Theory
A01
People strive for fairness. if
its not fair, the relationship is
INEQUITABLE
If recieve more than give -
Feel guilty
If recieve nothing but give
a lot - Feel distressed
If relationship is inequitable,
motivated to restore it
Equity is judged by ration of
inputs and outputs
A02
Supporting Evidence...
STAFFORD AND CANARY- 200 married
couples, relationship satisfaction is higher if
relationship is equitable
However...
CLARK AND MILLS- Equity less important in long term
relationships. Was found to only characterise relationships
with business partners or business associates
A03
CULTURAL BIAS- only
applies to relationships in
western cultures. Only
applies to short term
relationships among
individuals with high mobility
Eg Students
GENDER BIAS- men and
women judge equity
differently.
SOCIALLY SENSITIVE-
Women may not want to
admit they are only with
someone for the profits such
as money