the theory holding that people are happiest with relationships in which the rewards and costs a person experiences and the contributions he or she makes to the relationship are roughly equal to the rewards, costs, and contributions of the other person
this view of motivation focuses on the comparison processes people utilize to assess whether their rewards equate with their inputs. It encourages the consideration of what social comparisons are operating. Equity theory suggests that individuals strive towards equity, where inputs and outputs are deemed to be fair. Equity theory also explores how individuals react to conditions of over- and underpayment.
The theory that people are most satisfied in a relationship when the ratio between rewards and costs is similar for both partners.
The theory that people are most satisfied with a relationship when the ratio between benefits and contributions is similar for both partners.
Based on the notion that people are motivated by a desire for fairness, that is, to be treated fairly and will compare their own efforts and the rewards of others in the organization with a view to judging the fairness of their treatment.
A theory that focuses on the fairness of exchanges between individuals, which helps in understanding consumer satisfaction and dissatisfaction.