MULTIDIMENSIONAL INPUT IN EQUITY THEORY

Multiple dimensions of input, which are typical of equity judgments in practical situations, may be handled in 2 ways. Input integration transforms the multidimensional stimulus field into a 1-dimensional value of input that mediates the equity division. The alternative assumption of equity integration implies a reverse order of processing: First, the ratio model is applied to make an implicit equity division along each separate input dimension; the resulting equity ratios are then averaged to yield a final judgment. The difference in processing order implies different patterns of interaction that thus serve to test the 2 assumptions. Results of 2 experiments with 55 undergraduates agree with the hypothesized rule of equity integration when the input dimensions were dissimilar. When the input dimensions were similar, the results agree moderately well with the hypothesized rule of input integration, although there were small discrepancies. Results support a cognitive algebra of equity. (22 ref) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1979 American Psychological Association.