Interdependence: The meaning and the advantages
Interdependent Meaning And why It’s Important
The term "interdependence" is used a lot these days, but what does it actually mean?
Interdependence is the state of being interconnected with others. More specifically, it is a situation in which two or more people depend on or affect each other such that the actions of one will influence the other.
This means that our well-being is influenced by the actions of those around us. For example, a caregiver's health influences, and is influenced by, the care recipient (1).
This concept has far-reaching implications for our individual and collective health. Let's explore the characteristics and some of the advantages of being interdependent with friends and family.
Join TPP+ Today
Premium content to boost your performance, wellbeing and life success.
Characteristics of Interdependence
There are three main characteristics of interdependence: social connectedness, mutuality, and reciprocity.
Social connectedness refers to the idea that we are all connected to each other through our social networks. These networks provide us with a sense of belonging and community. They also give us a way to share resources and support each other. Social support buffers us against mental health issues like depression and anxiety.
Mutuality is the recognition that we all have something to contribute and that we all have something to gain from working together. We can achieve more by working together towards a common goal than we could ever achieve on our own.
Reciprocity is the process of balanced give-and-take in relationships. Sometimes we take support and resources, other times we provide these things. Interdependence breaks down when one person only gives or takes.
When we help others, they are more likely to help us in return. This creates a positive spiral of giving and receiving that benefits everyone.
Advantages of Being Interdependent
There are many advantages to being interdependent with friends and family. Several outcomes have been studied. Here are some example benefits reported by researchers:
Improved relationship quality (2)
Improved well-being in individuals (1)
Improved physical health (3)
Roadblocks
Various individual and relationship issues can get in the way of interdependence. Here are a few examples:
Difficulties with attachment styles, including anxious and avoidant tendencies
Being a people pleaser
Unhelpful gender socialisation, such as traditional masculinity
Summary
Interdependence is a state of being interconnected with others. This means that our well-being is dependent on the well-being of those around us.
This concept has far-reaching implications for our individual and collective well-being.
It is important to understand the characteristics of interdependence and the advantages of being interdependent. This knowledge can help us create more supportive and cooperative relationships that benefit everyone involved.
We are Coaching & Clinical Psychologists with extensive experience helping people conquer a range of wellbeing and performance issues at home and in the workplace. We can also help you develop healthy independence. Read more about our work, watch practical skills videos or browse other articles. Get in touch anytime.
References
(1) Ferraris, G., Dang, S., Woodford, J., & Hagedoorn, M. (2022). Dyadic Interdependence in Non-spousal Caregiving Dyads' Wellbeing: A Systematic Review. Frontiers in psychology, 13, 882389. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2022.882389
(2) Cohen, E., Davis, A. J., & Taylor, J. (2022). Interdependence, bonding and support are associated with improved mental wellbeing following an outdoor team challenge. Applied Psychology: Health and Well-Being, 1– 24. https://doi.org/10.1111/aphw.12351
(3) Ng, R., Allore, H. G., & Levy, B. R. (2020). Self-Acceptance and Interdependence Promote Longevity: Evidence From a 20-year Prospective Cohort Study. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 17(16), 5980. MDPI AG. Retrieved from http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/ijerph17165980
