In Interdependence Theory, CL refers to?

• A. Our expectations and desires regarding what we should receive from a relationship
• B. Our actual satisfaction
• C. Our partner's loyalty
• D. The length of the relationship

Answer: (C)

CL stands for the comparison level in Interdependence Theory, which is the standard people use to judge whether a relationship is meeting their expectations. It is about what we think we deserve—the rewards we expect and the costs we’re willing to tolerate—based on past experiences, social norms, and personal preferences. If the relationship provides more than or equal to what we expect, we feel satisfied and more committed; if it provides less, we feel dissatisfied and may consider leaving or looking at alternatives. This concept is about the expectation, not actual satisfaction, not the partner’s loyalty, nor the relationship’s duration. Therefore, the best description is our expectations and desires regarding what we should receive from a relationship.