An analysis of the concept of trust

Abstract

In the nursing literature trust has been identified as a foundation for a therapeutic relationship between nurse and health care consumer. It is through such a relationship that nurses can help effect needed changes in an individual's patterns of health behaviour. Several authors have described when trust is occurring, but few have attempted to define trust. In this paper trust is analysed, its critical attributes identified, and a theoretical definition given. Model, borderline, related, contrary, and illegitimate cases of trust are constructed. Antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents are also presented. The writer also makes recommendations regarding further study.