An Empirical Validation of Relative Deprivation

Abstract

The present study was an attempt to validate empirically the concept of relative deprivation. According to this concept, feelings of satisfaction or dissatisfaction depend more on relative rather than absolute criteria. Depending on one's environment, one could feel relatively satisfied or relatively deprived. Some theorists attempted to further specify the conditions leading to feelings of relative deprivation. At least five theoretical models now exist in the literature which specify various pre-conditions leading to feelings of relative deprivation. In the present study, these various pre-conditions were operationalized and applied to the working environment. Subjects, blue collar and clerical workers (n = 198) from three different organizations, were asked to fill out a questionnaire specifically designed for that purpose. Pearson correlations and multiple regression analyses favored Crosby's (1976) model over all other models examined. Relative deprivation feelings were positively correlated with wanting better working conditions, with comparing self to similar others, with feelings of deservingness, with feelings of greater expectations to have better working conditions, and, finally, with not holding self responsible for present conditions. Implications of the different models are discussed in terms of their theoretical and applied values.