Interdependence theory
Interdependence theory
- Interdependence theory** is a social exchange theory developed in social psychology that examines how interpersonal relationships are defined through interpersonal interdependence, which is "the process by which interacting people influence one another's experiences".p. 65 Originally proposed by Harold H. Kelley and John Thibaut in 1959, the theory provides a conceptual framework for analyzing the structure of interpersonal situations and how individuals' outcomes depend not only on their own actions but also on the actions of others.
The most basic principle of the theory is encapsulated in the equation I = ƒ[A, B, S], which states that all interpersonal interactions (I) are a function (ƒ) of the given situation (S), plus the actions and characteristics of the individuals (A & B) in the interaction. This equation represents how people's behaviors, thoughts, and emotions in relationships are influenced by both situational structures and psychological processes.
The theory's four basic assumptions are:
The Principle of Structure: Interpersonal situations have definable patterns of interdependence that shape interaction. # The Principle of Transformation: People may transform a given situation according to their motivations, values, and broader relationship goals. # The Principle of Interaction: Outcomes in relationships are determined by the mutual influence of both parties' actions. # The Principle of Adaptation: Individuals develop behavioral patterns over time in response to recurring situations of interdependence. This book drew inspiration from social exchange theory and game theory, and provided key definitions and concepts instrumental to the development of the interdependence framework. In their second book, Interpersonal Relations: A Theory of Interdependence, the theory was completely formalized in 1978. Harold Kelley continued the development of Interdependence theory in 2003, with the book An Atlas of Interpersonal Situations'. This book expanded on the previous work by adding two additional dimensions to the dimensions of interdependence, as well as by analyzing 21 specific situation types. or long term strategy of cooperating in anticipation of future reciprocal rewards from the other individual in future interactions. There are different types of rewards and costs discussed in this theory. This theory distinguishes between four types of rewards and costs. These types are as follows: emotional, social, instrumental, and opportunity. * Emotional Emotional rewards and costs are the positive and negative feelings, respectively, that are experienced in a relationship. These types of rewards and costs are especially pertinent to close relationships. *Social''' Social rewards and costs are those related with a person's social appearance and the ability to interact in social environments. Social rewards deal with the positive aspect of a person's social appearance and the enjoyable social situations in which one must engage. On the other hand, social costs are those that relate to the negative aspect of a person's social appearance and the uninteresting social situations to which a person must attend. A person will have a high comparison level, if all the relationships that they have been exposed to are happy. Therefore, to determine whether or not someone is in a satisfying relationship, it is necessary to consider both the rewards and costs evident in that relationship as well as that person's own comparison level. * Comparison Level for Alternative (CL-alt) ** Comparison level correlated with the rewards and costs of a relationship determine satisfaction and commitment for a particular person in a relationship. However, there are some situations where people may be committed, but not have a satisfying relationship or they may be satisfied in their relationship, but not committed to it. Thus, the quality of alternatives helps people understand the 'alternatives' they have outside of their current relationship.
Principle of adaptation Adaption refers to the process by where exposure to similar situations gives rise to habitual responses which have been proven to result in (on average) positive outcomes. In addition to the type of exposure based condition just described, adaptation can result based on rules of social norms.
In addition, the theory provides a practical framework for understanding the underlying psychological factors that motivate other individuals in which you interact (in both personal and professional settings), as well as providing a framework for understanding the underlying psychological factors that motivate your own actions when interacting with others.