This chapter describes the use of communal norms that dictate noncontingent responsiveness to a partner’s needs and advances propositions about the mechanisms that promote their development. NEW DIRECTIONS FOR CHILD AND ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT, no. 95, Spring 2002 © Wiley Periodicals, Inc. 3 1 Preparation of this chapter and some of the empirical work cited was supported by a grant from the National Science Foundation (9983417) and an REU supplement to that grant. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation. Adherence to Communal Norms: What It Means, When It Occurs, and Some Thoughts on How It Develops Margaret S. Clark, Sarah D. Jordan This chapter deals with communal norms governing the giving and accep- tance of benefits in relationships. We define benefits as something of value one person intentionally gives to another person, such as gifts, services, compliments, instructions, and emotional support. This definition excludes rewards derived from relationships that one person does not intentionally give to the other, such as the pride a person might feel at being seen in pub- lic with an attractive partner. Communal norms dictate noncontingent, need-based giving and accepting of benefits. They apply to select relationships up to implicit cost levels that vary by relationship. From the perspective of potential donors of benefits, communal norms dictate concern for the welfare of one’s partner and benefiting that partner in response to his or her needs without requir- ing repayments. From the perspective of potential recipients of benefits, communal norms call for being open about needs, seeking benefits when they are needed, and accepting needed help without believing one must repay that help.