Interdependence TheoryThibaut & Kelly (1959): Individuals are motivated to maximize rewards relative to costs in relationships.
Satisfaction and attraction are defined in terms of expectations and outcomes.
Individuals compare relationship outcomes to two standards – the comparison level (CL) and the comparison level for alternatives (CLalt).
The comparison levels are determined either using others’ relationships or past relationships.
The CL is the standard against which the attractiveness of the relationship is evaluated. When the level of outcomes exceeds this, the individual is satisfied with the relationship.
The CLalt is the standard used to determine whether to stay or leave the relationship. If an alternative is not available (this may include no relationship), the individual may continue in the relationship.