In the described framework, which expression defines Dependence?

• A. Outcomes - CLalt
• B. Outcomes - CL
• C. Rewards - Costs
• D. CL - CLalt

Answer: (A)

In interdependence theory, dependence is about how much you rely on the current relationship given your outside options. It’s captured by the difference between what you get from the relationship (outcomes, which are rewards minus costs) and what you could get with your best alternative (the comparison level for alternatives, CLalt).

Outcomes minus CLalt is the best expression because it directly measures the gap between staying in the relationship and moving on to the best available option. A positive difference means the relationship provides more value than you could obtain elsewhere, signaling dependence; a smaller or negative difference means you’re less dependent or inclined to consider alternatives.

The other expressions don’t capture this notion of reliance on the relationship relative to outside options. Rewards minus Costs is just the internal payoff, not how that payoff compares to outside options. Outcomes alone isn’t about dependence on the relationship, and CL minus CLalt doesn’t involve the actual outcomes you’re receiving.