A bidimensional view of distancing: Reciprocity versus compensation,intimacy versus social control

The present paper is devoted to placing two theoretical contrasts emerging in the interpersonal distancing literature into a metatheoretical framework. The first of these contrasts is that between reciprocity and compensation; the second is that between intimacy and social control. The point of departure for this placement is a bidimensional approach to interpersonal distancing.Reciprocity is defined as an individuated and attached mode of functioning,compensation as a deindividuated and detached mode.Intimacy is defined as a deindividuated and attached style andsocial control as one that is individuated and detached. Interpersonal and situational constraints are discussed in an attempt to understand better the workings of this typology in relationships.