The dark side of trust: When trust becomes a ‘poisoned chalice’

TLDR

Trust is generally viewed as inherently beneficial to all parties. The article investigates whether the negative aspects of interpersonal trust—its potential to become a “poisoned chalice”—have been adequately explored, arguing that its dark side lies in trust dynamics. The authors reappraise trust using social exchange and gift‑giving theories, emphasizing expectation, intent, and circumstances where trust harms one party. The paper concludes with a research agenda to deepen understanding of trust’s complex dynamics.

Abstract

Trust is typically portrayed as beneficial to all concerned; something which is inherently good. In this article we focus on interpersonal trust and argue that, while there are undoubted benefits, trust can also be problematic; there are circumstances in which it can become a ‘poisoned chalice’ for one or other of the parties involved. We question whether the potential for negative experiences in relation to trust has been fully explored and argue that its true dark side lies within the dynamics of the trust relationship. From this stance we use the social exchange and gift giving literatures to re-appraise trust in a way that highlights the importance of expectation and intent and demonstrates the circumstances in which trust may not be beneficial for one of the parties involved. We conclude with a research agenda which we believe will further develop our understanding of this complex human interaction.