Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 22, 2026
05:26
Enactive Phenomenological Approach to the Trier Social Stress Test: A Mixed Methods Point of View
Published on: January 7, 2019
Interdependence theory and the actor-partner interdependence model: where theory and method converge
Robert E Wickham1, C Raymond Knee
1University of Houston, TX, USA. robert.wickham@times.uh.edu
Summary
This study integrates the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) with interdependence theory (IT), offering new analytical ratios (k, h, and c) for a deeper understanding of relationship dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Social Psychology
- Relationship Science
- Quantitative Methods
Background:
- The actor-partner interdependence model (APIM) is a statistical framework for analyzing dyadic data.
- Interdependence theory (IT) provides a conceptual basis for understanding relationship dynamics.
- Previous work has noted similarities between APIM and IT, but a detailed conceptual integration is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a detailed conceptual integration of APIM and IT.
- To demonstrate how APIM analysis can offer novel perspectives on interdependence not explicit in IT.
- To introduce and explore new analytical ratios derived from IT within the APIM framework.
Main Methods:
- Application of the actor-partner interdependence model (APIM).
- Conceptual analysis integrating APIM with interdependence theory (IT).
- Exploration of existing (k) and introduction of new (h, c) ratio parameters.
Main Results:
- APIM analysis provides unique insights into interdependence beyond IT's explicit articulation.
- The relationship between Kenny and Ledermann's ratio k and IT is explored.
- Two new ratios, h and c, suggested by IT, are introduced and analyzed.
Conclusions:
- The integration of APIM and IT offers a richer framework for studying relationship dynamics.
- The proposed ratios (k, h, c) provide novel quantitative tools for interdependence research.
- A worked example and SAS macro facilitate the application of these integrated methods.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Social Exchange Theory
As formulated by John Thibaut and Harold Kelley, Social Exchange Theory explains human relationships as economic-like exchanges that maximize rewards and minimize costs. This theory suggests that individuals engage in relationships to gain benefits and reduce burdens, similar to economic transactions. It has been widely applied to various types of relationships, including romantic, professional, and social interactions.Rewards and Costs in RelationshipsRelationship rewards include emotional...
02:06Social Exchange Theory
We have discussed why we form relationships, what attracts us to others, and different types of love. But what determines whether we are satisfied with and stay in a relationship? One theory that provides an explanation is social exchange theory. According to social exchange theory, we act as naïve economists in keeping a tally of the ratio of costs and benefits of forming and maintaining a relationship with others (Rusbult & Van Lange, 2003).
01:15Theory of Attribution I: Correspondent Inference Theory
Correspondent inference theory, proposed by Jones and Davis in 1965, seeks to explain how individuals infer stable personality traits from observed behaviors. It suggests that people attribute actions to underlying dispositions rather than external circumstances, particularly when the behavior appears intentional and socially significant.Voluntary Behavior and Dispositional AttributionAccording to this theory, individuals are more likely to attribute behavior to personal traits when it appears...
01:23Actor-Observer Effect
The actor-observer effect, a cognitive bias closely linked to the fundamental attribution error, refers to the tendency for individuals to attribute their behavior to external, situational factors while explaining others’ behavior in terms of internal, dispositional traits. This asymmetry in attribution significantly influences social perception and judgment.Cognitive Mechanisms Behind the EffectTwo primary psychological mechanisms contribute to the actor-observer effect: differences in visual...
01:29Theory of Attribution II: Kelley's Covariation Theory
Attribution theory plays a crucial role in social psychology, helping to explain how individuals interpret the causes of behavior. One prominent model within this field is Harold Kelley's covariation theory, which provides a systematic approach to determining whether internal traits or external circumstances drive a person's actions. The model posits that individuals rely on three key types of information—consensus, consistency, and distinctiveness—to make these judgments.Consensus: Comparing...
01:26Equity Theory
Equity theory explains how our sense of fairness influences the dynamics of close relationships. Rooted in social psychology, the theory posits that individuals evaluate fairness by comparing the ratio of their contributions to the rewards they receive. Relationship satisfaction is highest when these ratios are perceived as balanced between partners, promoting mutual reciprocity and a sense of justice.Equity vs. Equality in RelationshipsEquity is distinct from equality. Fairness does not...