Trust as a Complex Multi-Dimensional Construct

Abstract

While many uses of the construct trust assume unidimensionality, there is a lack of agreement as to meaning and measurement. Some have suggested trust to be a multi-dimensional construct. This study explored further the notion that trust is multi-dimensional. A factor analysis of three paper-and-pencil measures of trust yielded four underlying factors: suspicion-trust, risk-taking, gambling, and cynicism. The implications of this finding are discussed. Recommendations for future conceptualization and study are included.