cognitive interdependence

the tendency of individuals in close, committed relationships to think of themselves less in individual terms and more as partners in a dyadic relationship. For example, cognitive interdependence leads people to increase their use of plural pronouns (we, us, our) while decreasing their use of singular pronouns (I, me, my). Cognitive interdependence is thought to reflect mental processes that stem from the meshing of perspectives, goals, and identities that characterizes committed relationships and is most commonly observed in romantic relationships such as marriage.

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Psychology term of the day

March 17th 2025

principled negotiation

a procedure to resolve the conflict between individuals or groups that strives for a mutually beneficial resolution while acknowledging the value of ongoing relationships. The procedure has four main components: (a) separating interpersonal problems from the more substantive issues between the parties and dealing with each issue individually, (b) focusing on the parties’ real interests rather than on what they initially say they want, (c) developing possible solutions that benefit all parties, and (d) insisting on objective criteria for the parties’ decisions. [first described in 1981 by Roger Fisher (1922–2012) and William L. Ury, U.S. experts on negotiation]