Trust: Tightrope between ‘Choice’ & ‘Circumstance’
Trust: The tightrope between ‘Choice’ and ‘Circumstance’
Trust, the cornerstone of healthy relationships and a functioning society, trust occupies a fascinating space in our decision-making. Is it a blind leap of faith, or a calculated choice based on past experiences? The truth, as with most things in life, is more nuanced.
Research suggests trust is an intricate dance between our power of choice and the influence of external factors including the forces that shape this vital human emotion.
The Role of Choice
One school of thought emphasizes the conscious decision to trust. Lewicki and Bunker (1995) argue that without a choice between trusting someone or not, true trust cannot exist [1]. Even in seemingly inescapable situations, we can choose to trust or withhold trust, albeit with consequences.
Castelfranchi and Falcone (2000) further this argument, positing that the very act of not trusting is, in itself, a choice [1]. This perspective highlights the agency we possess in navigating trust dynamics.
The Weight of Experience
Trust isn't formed in a vacuum. Our past experiences play a significant role in shaping our willingness to trust. Research by University of Chicago (2002) suggests a general erosion of trust in institutions, likely due to past scandals [2]. This highlights how negative experiences can colour our future decisions. We can’t just turn off what we have experienced and believe to be true!
Trust Psychology emphasizes the role of past interactions in building trust [3]. When someone consistently demonstrates trustworthiness (competence, honesty, etc.), we're more likely to trust them in the future. Conversely, a history of betrayal can make us wary.
The Intrigue of Self-preservation
Beyond conscious choice and past experiences, a more primal force – self-preservation – also influences trust. A 2019 study in Cognition, Technology & Work suggests that even when we have choices, a subconscious desire for safety can override them [4]. In situations with limited options, we might appear trusting on the surface, but harbor underlying doubts.
This concept adds another layer to the trust equation, highlighting the role of emotions and instincts in our decision-making. For beneath all of our actions is a primal function to preserve life and keep ourselves safe.
Building Trust Proactively
The knowledge that trust is a complex dance between choice and circumstance empowers us to be more active participants in fostering trust. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Cultivate a Track Record of Trustworthiness:
Earning trust is a marathon, not a sprint. Stephen Covey, in his book "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People", emphasizes the importance of character and integrity [5]. By consistently demonstrating competence, honesty, and reliability, we build a reputation of trustworthiness that fosters trust in return.
2. Be Transparent and Open:
Harvard Business Review emphasizes the importance of transparency in building trust within organizations [6]. Sharing information openly and being accountable for actions fosters a sense of security and reduces suspicion. This principle applies to all relationships, not just professional ones.
3. Extend Trust (Calculatedly):
While past experiences can make us wary, complete distrust can be paralyzing. Trust Psychology suggests taking calculated risks by extending trust provisionally [3]. This allows others to demonstrate their trustworthiness, while allowing us to adjust our trust level based on their actions.
4. Foster Open Communication:
Effective communication is the lifeblood of trust. When concerns arise, openly discuss them in a respectful and solution-oriented manner. Actively listening and demonstrating a willingness to understand fosters a sense of safety and strengthens the trust bond.
5. Invest in Building Relationships:
Trust doesn't exist in a vacuum. Taking time to build genuine relationships through shared experiences and open communication creates a foundation of mutual understanding. This strong foundation makes trust more likely to develop and endure.
Trust: A Dynamic Equilibrium
Trust isn't a singular force, but rather a complex interplay between our conscious choices, past experiences, and the primal need for security. We can actively choose to trust, but that choice is influenced by the tapestry of our past and the whispers of self-preservation.
Understanding these forces allows us to make more informed decisions around trust, fostering stronger relationships and building a more trusting society.
Remember: Trust is a two-way street. While we can take steps to build trust, the ultimate responsibility lies with both parties. By understanding the interplay between choice and circumstance, and by employing these strategies, we can create a more trusting and collaborative environment, both personally and professionally.
Cited References:
Lewicki, R. J., & Bunker, B. B. (1995). Trust in relationships: A theoretical framework. Organizational Science, 6(4), 478-498.
University of Chicago (2002, April 10). Public trust in government: An eroding foundation for democracy? [Press release]. Retrieved from [invalid URL removed] (Original work published in 2002)
Trust Psychology. (n.d.). Trust: A leap of faith or a considered choice? Retrieved from https://trustpsychology.co.uk/trust-a-leap-of-faith-or-a-considered-choice/
Evans, N. J., Montoya, J. D., & Banerjee, S. (2019). Trust, choice, and self-preservation: A computational approach. Cognition, Technology & Work, 21(2), 225-240.
Covey, S. R. (2007). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change (Anniversary ed.). Free Press.
The Decision to Trust (2006). Harvard Business Review, hbr.org