ABSTRACT

Interdependence is a central feature of close relationships. One widely accepted definition holds that close relationships are characterized by interdependent social exchanges, which are manifest in frequent, strong, and diverse interconnections that are maintained over an extended period of time (Kelly et al., 1983). This definition emphasizes objective assessments of interdependence, identifying readily measured and observable features that signal closeness on the part of both participants (Berscheid, 1999). The metric has more than face validity. Participants in relationships that are typically defined as close, such as those between family members, friends, and romantic partners, are more apt to be interdependent than participants in other relationships (Laursen & Bukowski, 1997).