Social exchange theories and sexuality - Equity theory

Journal of Sex Research:

In a general sense, equity refers to the degree of perceived balance in the relationship between partners' inputs and outcomes. More specifically, "an equitable relationship exists when the person evaluating the relationship--who could be Participant A, Participant B, or an outside observer -- concludes that all participants are receiving equal relative gains from the relationship" (Hatfield & Traupmann, 1981, p. 166). Inputs are defined as the participant's positive and negative contributions to the exchange that entitle him or her to reward or punishment. Outcomes are defined as the rewards and punishments the participant receives in the relationship. Total outcomes are defined as rewards minus punishments. Two types of inequity can be experienced: underbenefiting inequity and overbenefiting inequity. Whether a relationship or a specific aspect of the relationship (i.e., the sexual relationship) is judged to be equitable or inequitable depends on the "eye of the beholder."

Men and women who find themselves in inequitable relationships will become distressed.

Individuals who perceive that they are inequitably treated will be motivated to restore equity to reduce the distress they experience. Equity can be restored to the relationship in two possible ways. Individuals may engage in actual equity restoration by changing their contributions or convincing their partner to change his or hers. Psychological equity restoration involves convincing oneself that inequity does not exist. Offering or refusing particular sexual behaviors is one way that equity can be restored in a relationship.

The "matching hypothesis," which contains two specific predictions: (a) The more socially desirable a person is (in physical attractiveness, social standing, intelligence, etc.), the more socially desirable he or she would expect a dating, marriage, or sexual partner to be, and (b) couples who are matched (both partners are equally socially desirable) are more likely to have happy and enduring relationships than couples who are mismatched (one partner is more socially desirable than the other).

Research indicates that in heterosexual relationships, women's physical attractiveness is often traded for a man's wealth or social standing.

Absolute reward level, investments, and poor alternatives have been good predictors of relationship longevity.

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