In a relationship, the principle that benefits should align with contributions is called?

• A. Self-Disclosure
• B. Mere Exposure Effect
• C. Equity
• D. Bystander Effect

Answer: (C)

Equity theory explains this fairness principle: people in relationships expect their benefits to align with their contributions. Inputs like time, effort, and support should be matched by outputs such as affection, praise, and rewards. When the ratio feels fair, partners tend to be satisfied and the relationship stays balanced. If one person contributes more but receives the same or fewer rewards, they feel underbenefited and might pull back or seek more reciprocity; the other partner may feel overbenefited and uneasy. To restore equity, couples often renegotiate roles, adjust behaviors, or reframe how they value each contribution, which helps improve perceived fairness and relationship quality.

Self-disclosure is about sharing personal feelings, the Mere Exposure Effect is about liking someone more after repeated exposure, and the Bystander Effect describes reduced helping in the presence of others—none of these address proportionality between contributions and benefits.