Bill Stoner has believed for several years that he works as hard as his coworker, Barry Savage, but never seems to receive the pay increases or recognition that Savage does. Stoner has grown frustrated with trying to "catch up" with Savage and has started feeling more motivated since he realized his superiors pay more attention to him than they do another coworker, Fred Jennings. According to equity theory, Stoner has changed his ________
A) referents
B) inputs
C) outcome/input ratios
D) perception of his referent's inputs

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Equity theory suggests that individuals compare their inputs (effort, time, skills) and outcomes (compensation, recognition) to those of their referent, or comparison other. Stoner has changed his referent from Savage to Jennings, indicating a change in his comparison standard. This means he has changed his referent, as stated in option A. The other options are not applicable to the situation described.

Bill Stoner Has Believed for Several Years That He Works