M: Organizational Behavior 2nd Edition by Steven McShane, Mary Von Glinow

Exercise 55

Jack Smith and Sam Clemens are neighbors who work as purchasing managers in different companies in the petrochemical industry. During one neighborly discussion, Jack learned that Sam's salary was nearly 15% higher than his even though their job duties were similar. Jack was upset about Sam's higher salary although he hid his emotions from Sam (after all, it wasn't Sam's fault that they received different salary levels). Jack was frustrated not only because Sam received a significantly higher salary, but also because Jack was certain that he worked longer hours and was more productive than Sam. According to Equity Theory research, what will Jack probably do to reduce his upset feelings?