What is interdependence theory and how does it explain relationship closeness?

• A. Outcomes depend only on one partner's actions.
• B. Closeness occurs when partners ignore each other's outcomes.
• C. Outcomes depend on both partners; high interdependence and mutual rewards predict closeness and commitment.
• D. Interdependence theory denies the role of rewards in relationships.

Answer: (C)

Interdependence theory treats relationship outcomes as a function of both partners’ actions. Closeness grows when partners are highly interdependent—each person’s well-being relies on the other’s behavior—and the joint rewards of staying connected are substantial. People continually evaluate whether the relationship yields better payoffs than being apart, weighing benefits, costs, and available alternatives. When mutual rewards are strong and alternatives look unattractive, commitment deepens and feelings of closeness increase. This framework explains why closeness isn’t built by one-sided effort or by ignoring one another’s outcomes, and why denying the importance of rewards would undermine why couples stay connected.