Trust and Interpersonal Relationships

Running head: TRUST AND INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

Trust and Interpersonal Relationships

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University of Phoenix

Trust and Interpersonal Relationships

Trust is a central ingredient in human relationships, and thus, in group dynamics. At its root, trust is interpersonal; within a group, interpersonal connections multiply exponentially. Whether families, teams, or small organizations—even within small groups—these connections become multifold, complex, and interdependent. Within groups, the quality of a wide range of interpersonal relationships—especially between and among formal leaders and their close colleagues—depends significantly on the degree of trust that exists in these relationships. The aggregate status of "trust," in turn, strongly influences the cohesiveness and effectiveness of the group.

In my experience with groups a very basic level of trust is assumed but true trust is earned. Lewicki and Bunker identified three dimensions of trust—calculus-based, knowledge-based and identification based trust. Calculus-based trust is driven by both the value of benefits and the cost of cheating. Knowledge-based trust is predicated upon the confidence in another’s predictability, dependability and reliability. Lastly, identification based trust permits each party to understand each other, agree with what the other wants and prepare to support one another in pursuit of those ends.

In my experience trust is lost through dishonesty, the individual not doing his/her part letting down the team, or having an alternate agenda that is not in the best interest of the team. Trust is associated with the expectations and predictability of human behavior, which can be influenced by the stress of environmental conditions. The degree of trust between people can vary as to importance and strength, and can depend on the situation. Also, the likelihood of positive outcomes affects trust. Along these lines, Lewicki and Bunker have categorized...