Studied 60 male and 60 female undergraduates performing 2 tasks (a) when the partner always divided the group earnings, and (b) when the s was responsible for allocating rewards. A 3 * 2 * 2 factorial design was employed with 3 levels of reward received relative to partner's rewards and determined by the partner's division of rewards on the 1st task, 2 levels of qualifications of partner (inputs), and sex of dyad members comprising the independent variables. Division of the rewards by the s on the 2nd task confirms the equity theory prediction that previously overpaid ss took less money for themselves, and previously underpaid ss took more than equally paid ss. A preference for equality over equity was noted in both the actual dividing of the rewards and questionnaire responses. Ss' divisions of the rewards were less extreme than equity theory predicted, and ss preferred equal division situations. Furthermore, partner's inputs had only minor effects on ss' behavior. Data are discussed in terms of a desire to maintain equal status in a direct exchange. (20 ref.) (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2016 APA, all rights reserved)