Social Interdependence Theory posits that group outcomes are affected by what?

• A. Individual outcomes are independent of others' actions.
• B. Individual outcomes are affected by the actions of others, with cooperation and competition influencing results.
• C. The theory states competition always produces better group results.
• D. Outcomes depend only on fixed traits, not interactions.

Answer: (B)

Social Interdependence Theory shows that how group outcomes turn out depends on the way members’ goals and actions are linked. Individual results aren’t determined in isolation—they are shaped by what others do. When cooperation is present, people align efforts and support each other, often boosting both individual and group success. When competition dominates, it can create negative interdependence, harming collaboration and overall results. So outcomes hinge on the actions of others within the interdependent structure, not on independence, automatic superiority of competition, or fixed traits alone.