Trust Model
Mayer, Davis, and Schoorman's (1995) Three-Dimensional Model of Trust: This model defines trust as consisting of three dimensions: ability, benevolence, and integrity. Ability refers to the trustor's perception of the trustee's competence and expertise, benevolence refers to the trustee's perceived intent to do good, and integrity refers to the trustee's perceived adherence to ethical principles.
Ability: This dimension refers to the extent to which the trustee is perceived as competent and skilled in performing their role or task. Trust in ability is based on the trustor's perception of the trustee's expertise, knowledge, and skill level.
Benevolence: This dimension refers to the extent to which the trustee is perceived as having good intentions and being motivated by a desire to do good. Trust in benevolence is based on the trustor's perception of the trustee's motives, values, and concern for the trustor's well-being.
Integrity: This dimension refers to the extent to which the trustee is perceived as being honest and trustworthy. Trust in integrity is based on the trustor's perception of the trustee's adherence to ethical principles, values, and reliability.
To use this model, individuals and organizations can assess their trustworthiness by evaluating their ability, benevolence, and integrity. For example, individuals can ask themselves questions such as:
Ability: What skills and expertise do I have to perform my role or task? How can I improve my skills and knowledge?
Benevolence: What are my motives and values in this relationship or interaction? How can I demonstrate my concern for the other person's well-being?
Integrity: How do I demonstrate my honesty and ethical behavior? How can I build a reputation for being trustworthy?
By evaluating their trustworthiness in these three dimensions, individuals and organizations can identify areas for improvement and take steps to build trust with others. For example, they can demonstrate their competence by providing evidence of their skills and expertise, show their benevolence by communicating openly and empathetically with others, and display their integrity by following through on commitments and behaving ethically.