Jane and Connie Are Neighbours Who Both Work as Purchasing

question 202

Essay

Jane and Connie are neighbours who both work as purchasing managers in different companies in the petrochemical industry. During one neighbourly discussion, Jane learned that Connie's salary was nearly 15 per cent higher than hers even though their job duties were similar. Other than this difference, both received similar benefits and seemed to enjoy their jobs and colleagues. Jane was upset about Connie's higher salary, although she did her best to hide her emotions from Connie. After all, it wasn't Connie's fault that they received different salary levels. Jane was frustrated not only because Connie received a significantly higher salary, but also because she was certain that she worked longer hours and was more productive than Connie. According to equity theory research, what will Jane probably do to reduce her upset feelings?

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Definitions:

Psychological Studies

The scientific research and analysis of human behavior, thought processes, and emotions.

Causal Conclusions

Inferences that establish a cause-effect relationship between two or more events or conditions.

Observational Study

A research method in which subjects are observed in their natural environment without experimental intervention by the researcher.

Confounding Variable

An external variable that can influence the outcomes of an experimental study, potentially leading to misleading conclusions if not controlled.