According to equity theory, motivation depends on whether the exchange is perceived as fair; which factor is primary?

According to equity theory, motivation depends on whether the exchange is perceived as fair; which factor is primary?

• A. Personal achievement needs
• B. The perceived fairness of exchanges and social comparisons
• C. The desire for power
• D. The availability of resources

Answer: (B)

Equity theory explains motivation through fairness in social exchanges. The central idea is that people look at what they contribute versus what they receive and compare that to what others contribute and receive. The primary factor is the perceived fairness of those exchanges and the social comparisons used as a benchmark. When people feel their treatment is fair relative to others, motivation stays strong; when they perceive inequity, they’re driven to restore balance, which can mean increasing effort, seeking greater rewards, or adjusting their perceptions. Other factors like personal achievement needs, desire for power, or resource availability can influence motivation in other theories, but within equity theory the main force is the fairness of the exchange and the corresponding social comparisons.

Equity theory explains motivation through fairness in social exchanges. The central idea is that people look at what they contribute versus what they receive and compare that to what others contribute and receive. The primary factor is the perceived fairness of those exchanges and the social comparisons used as a benchmark. When people feel their treatment is fair relative to others, motivation stays strong; when they perceive inequity, they’re driven to restore balance, which can mean increasing effort, seeking greater rewards, or adjusting their perceptions. Other factors like personal achievement needs, desire for power, or resource availability can influence motivation in other theories, but within equity theory the main force is the fairness of the exchange and the corresponding social comparisons.