Question

Consider expectancy theory, goal theory, and equity theory. Which theory is most practical from your experience? Explain how you have witnessed this theory in action by describing its core concepts using an actual example in either your professional or personal life.

Answer 1

Answer: I feel that the equity theory is the most practical theory based on my experience. As per the equity theory, the individuals are motivated by the fairness. If a person finds that there is an inequality in the input or output ratios of themselves and their reference group then they will attempt to adjust their inputs or efforts in order to create a perceived equity. This is very commonly witnessed phenomenon in our entire society. I have witnessed this phenomenon in my professional life as well. Once I worked as a part time front line employee with a restaurant chain. There was both part time as well as full time employees who worked for the chain. There was a direct competition between both these groups as they performed the same type of roles. I was the part time employee and I worked very hard and followed all the instructions properly. Most of the full time employees did not take the job much seriously and performed averagely. On the pay day, I saw the pay slip of one of the full time employee, it was nearly double as compared to what I received. This created a sense of disparity in my mind. I felt that I was not treated fairly by the organization. As a result I reduced my efforts considerably on my job and started working as per my pay check to bring parity between me and my permanent collogues.