Work

The structural contingency model of trust: When variability in perceived trustworthiness of scientists signals critical support

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Prevailing approaches to measuring public trust in scientists rely on facet averages that overlook within-person variability, a dimension traditional views equate with ambivalence or attitudinal weakness. This study introduces the Structural Contingency Model of Trust (SCMT), proposing that the functional meaning of this variability is contingent on an individual’s overall trust level. In a Bayesian analysis of survey data from 68 countries ( N = 69,534), higher Trust Level (mean across 12 facets) strongly predicted greater general confidence in scientists. Critically, a credible interaction effect supported the SCMT: among highly trusting individuals, greater Trust Variability (variance across facets) was associated with the highest probability of reporting a great deal of confidence in scientists. This Critical Support profile suggests that variability can signify robust, differentiated engagement rather than evaluative weakness, offering a nuanced framework for understanding the complex, multidimensional nature of public trust in scientists.

Source: Public Understanding of Science

DOI: 10.1177/09636625261475515

Author: Tenzin Tamang

Institution: City University of Hong Kong

Language: English

Topic: Science Education and Perceptions

Subfield: Developmental and Educational Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,900

Funder: Research Grants Council, University Grants Committee