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Equity Theory

Written by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 examโ€ขWritten by the Fiveable Content Team โ€ข Last updated September 2025

Definition

The Equity Theory suggests that people are motivated to maintain a sense of fairness and balance in their relationships. It proposes that individuals compare the ratio of inputs (efforts, contributions) to outcomes (rewards, benefits) with those of others, and seek equity or equality in these ratios.