Final answer:
Employees' attitudes or behaviors remain unchanged according to equity theory when all inequities are eliminated, and they perceive a balanced input-output ratio in relation to others, as supported by implicit contracts or market pressures.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to equity theory, there will be no change in employees' attitudes or behavior when all inequities have been eliminated and all individuals are equal with no additional accommodations. Equity theory postulates that employees weigh their input-output ratio against that of others to determine fairness. When employees perceive fairness in their work environment, they are likely to be satisfied and motivated, which leads to no significant change in behavior. Conversely, perceptions of inequity can result in feelings of dissatisfaction and actions to rebalance the perceived injustice.
In the case of an implicit contract between employer and employee, such as the one described where wages remain stable during both strong and weak economic times, employees benefit from wage stability and might therefore perceive the equity of their input-output ratio as balanced. This perceived balance maintains unchanged employee attitudes and efforts. Additionally, market pressures also influence fairness perceptions, as seen in scenarios where discriminatory businesses might be compelled to adjust wages to retain their workforce.