Longitudinal Study of Equity and Satisfaction in Intimate Relationships

摘要

The longitudinal study was aimed at illuminating some fundamental problems withrespect to the application of equity theory in intimate relationships. The study first tested the relationship between perceived equity and satisfaction, and ascertained whether inequity produces dissatisfaction or vice versa. A second issue was whether global assessments of equity represent some type of calculation made by the subject of all the relevant inputs and outcomes. Finally, the elements subjects take into consideration when they respond to a global equity measure was assessed. These issues were examined in a sample of 736 primarily married subjects. The results provide some evidence that equity has an effect upon satisfaction and not vice versa. It was found that the global measure particularly reflects exchange elements such as 'commitment to the relationship,' 'sociability,' and 'attentiveness'.