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If we want to understand behavior in close relationships, should we examine the relationship per se or should we examine the individuals of which a relationship is composed? In explaining important phenomena, should we emphasize properties of dyads or properties of actors? Most theories of close relationships explain behavior by reference to properties that reside within actors–by reference to individual-level cognition (Baldwin, 1992), dispositions (Hazan & Shaver, 1994), motives (Aron & Aron, 1997), or biology (Kenrick & Trost, 1997). In contrast, interdependence theory explains behavior by reference to properties that reside between actors–by reference to features of interactions and relationships (Kelley & Thibaut, 1978; Thibaut & Kelley, 1959). Thus, interdependence theory provides a uniquely interpersonal analysis of relationships. Why should we concern ourselves with interdependence? First …