Josh, a recent graduate of State University, is working as a middle manager in the finance department of a pharmaceutical company. Josh makes $30 an hour. He often seems disinterested in his job and even has thoughts about quitting.
When pressed one day about why he is unhappy, Josh cites his pay as the main reason. Specifically, he tells a coworker that, compared to managers at other pharmaceutical companies, he makes much less. "It isn't fair," he complains. "I work just as hard as they do, yet I don't make as much. Maybe I should go work for the competition."
Which motivational theory best describes his unhappiness?