How does social comparison influence perceptions of fairness?

In determining what is fair, the nature of the relationship between the parties is particularly important. 

A negotiator will subconsciously undertake a process known as social comparison, which evaluates the negotiator's social standing with regard to the other party. That is, we subconsiously ask, "is the counterparty a colleague (or equal in status), superior, or subordinate?" 

A negotiator may take on a more needs-based approach in negotiations with superiors and subordinates. 

Negotiations with individuals of equal status are often marked by the equity rule. 

It may give rise to increased competition or tension in the negotiation with the objective of improving one's position in relation to another. 

How to Manage the Effects of Social Comparison in a Negotiation? 

A negotiator in a superior social position may seek to reduce this emotional response to the disparity in a number of manners: 

Alter the Inputs

Alter any of the factors identified as affecting the negotiation. This may include altering the context of the negotiation, the timing, etc. If the negotiator is unable to actually alter the inputs, she may seek to alter the counterparty's perception. 

Alter the Outcomes

Alter the negotiation process and potential results of the negotiation. This may include altering (for oneself of the counterparty) the interests at stake (mixed-motive or move to an integrative situation), the objectives (target point and optimal outcome), the alternatives (the resistance point and ZOPA), or the need for adjustment or concessions. 

Cognitively Distort Inputs or Outcomes

If the negotiator is unable to actually alter the inputs or potential outcomes, she may seek to alter the counterparty's perception of the inputs or potential outcomes. This may be done through any effort that affects the counterparty's cognition, such as logic or emotion. For example, convincing the other party that common sense dictates an outcome or appealing to the counterparty's emotion (through empathy or sympathy). 

A negotiator who is unable to either remove or reduce the source of inequity (or the perception of inequity) in a situation, as influenced by social comparison, may find it difficult to effectively negotiate a distributive situation.

Related Topics

• What is perception in the context of negotiation?
• What is Cognitive Framing in the context of negotiation?
• Mental models of negotiation?
• What are Cognitive Biases in negotiations?
• What is risk and how does risk perception affect a negotiation?
• How do perceptions of entitlement and fairness affect negotiations?
• How does social comparison affect perceptions of fairness?
• What is the effect of mood and emotions in negotiation?
• What role does creativity play in negotiations?