In Equity Theory, when are individuals most content with their job relative to others?

In Equity Theory, when are individuals most content with their job relative to others?

• A. If their input-output ratio is higher than others
• B. If their input-output ratio is equal to others
• C. If their input-output ratio is lower than others
• D. If their ratio is irrelevant

Answer: (B)

Equity Theory centers on fairness in social comparisons. People assess what they put in (effort, time, skills) and what they get out (pay, recognition, benefits) and compare that to what others put in and receive. When their own input-output ratio matches that of the referent others, they perceive fairness and feel most content with their job relative to those peers. If the ratio is lower, they feel under-rewarded and dissatisfied; if higher, they may feel over-rewarded and experience guilt or try to restore balance. So, equality of the ratios yields the greatest sense of equity and contentment.

Equity Theory centers on fairness in social comparisons. People assess what they put in (effort, time, skills) and what they get out (pay, recognition, benefits) and compare that to what others put in and receive. When their own input-output ratio matches that of the referent others, they perceive fairness and feel most content with their job relative to those peers. If the ratio is lower, they feel under-rewarded and dissatisfied; if higher, they may feel over-rewarded and experience guilt or try to restore balance. So, equality of the ratios yields the greatest sense of equity and contentment.