Social psychological aspects of trust Cover Image

Социалнопсихологични аспекти на доверието
Social psychological aspects of trust

Author(s): Yolanda Zografova, Boryan Andreev
Subject(s): Social Sciences, Psychology, Social psychology and group interaction
Published by: Софийски университет »Св. Климент Охридски«
Keywords: trust; social capital; diversity

Summary/Abstract: In this paper, the problem area of trust/distrust at societal level is outlined from a social-psychological point of view. In social cognition, it is proven that the development of trust is an important indicator of social development. Global processes such as mobility, multicultural diversity, migration, and social-psychological phenomena such as conformism, acceptance of social norms and others are among the key factors influencing trust and/or distrust. Trust is considered an important element of social capital (Putnam, 2007). Data collected through a survey on levels of trust among Bulgarian citizens are presented, covering three main dimensions: interpersonal, attitudes towards management structures and towards institutions. Social-demographic factors such as age and place of residence have a significant impact on respondents' level of trust. The results of the study reveal low levels of trust among Bulgarians which leads to conclusions about society’s well-being and development.