Balanced autonomy and connection: Partners are attached but still capable of making their own decisions or living a happy life separate from the relationship
Mutual support without loss of self: Partners can rely on each other for emotional support while maintaining clear boundaries and individual identities
Shared vulnerability: Partners embrace their vulnerabilities, share responsibilities, and draw strength from each other's unique qualities
Benefits for Couples
Enhanced well-being: Individuals from emotionally more interdependent couples reported higher individual well-being than individuals from more independent couples in terms of life satisfaction.
Emotional co-regulation: Adult partners "coregulate," referring to a process in which partners regulate each other's affect and physiological arousal, helping to maintain each other's emotional stability
Increased relationship satisfaction: A 2016 study found that couples in interdependent relationships gained strength from knowing that they could each live their own lives and pursue personal goals with the support and encouragement of their partner.
Better resilience: Reaching out for support and receiving a favorable response makes a complex, stressful world easier to navigate
Personal growth: Interdependent relationships facilitate balanced personal development where both partners can achieve their potential while contributing to each other's growth
How to Build Interdependence
- Maintain clear boundaries and communicate them openly
- Pursue individual interests and goals outside the relationship
- Practice vulnerability while retaining your sense of self
- Develop trust through consistent, reliable actions
- Support each other's autonomy rather than trying to control or complete each other
Healthy interdependence is necessary for developing emotional intimacy in romantic relationships, creating a foundation where both partners feel secure enough to be authentic while knowing they can depend on each other when needed.
