What theory best explains SrA Walker's decline in motivation after feeling unfairly recognized?

The correct answer is Adam's Equity Theory, which focuses on individuals' perceptions of fairness in social exchanges, particularly in the workplace. When an individual feels that their contributions are not being fairly recognized compared to others, it can lead to a decline in motivation. In this scenario, SrA Walker's feeling of being unfairly recognized indicates a perceived imbalance in the effort-reward ratio when compared to peers. This sense of inequity can create dissatisfaction and reduce motivation to perform, as the individual may feel their hard work is undervalued.

This theory applies specifically to situations where individuals assess their contributions against those of others, leading to feelings of inequity or justice. If someone perceives that they are not receiving recognition commensurate with their input, they may become demotivated, which aligns with Walker's situation perfectly. The focus here is on fairness and equity rather than intrinsic or extrinsic factors, making this theory the most relevant to understanding the decline in motivation due to feelings of unfair recognition.