Geographical dimensions and correlates of trust

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Sociology

Background:

• Public trust in science and technology is crucial for environmental protection.
• Understanding the relationship between trust in societal institutions and local authorities is essential for effective public health and environmental governance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between trust in science and technology (societal trust) and trust in local officials (neighborhood trust) among New Jersey residents.
• To identify demographic and attitudinal differences between individuals with varying levels of societal and neighborhood trust.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted with 323 New Jersey residents, stratified by neighborhood quality.
• Participants' trust in science, technology, and various local officials was assessed.
• Respondents were categorized into four trust-of-authority groups based on societal and neighborhood trust levels.

Main Results:

• Two dimensions of trust were identified: societal (trust in science and technology) and neighborhood (trust in local officials).
• Societal and neighborhood trust dimensions were weakly correlated.
• High societal-high neighborhood trust individuals were older, long-term residents, unconcerned by environmental threats, and felt a strong sense of control.
• Low societal-low neighborhood trust individuals were younger, recent residents, concerned by threats, practiced fewer public health behaviors, and felt little control.

Conclusions:

• Trust in science/technology and local officials are distinct but related constructs influencing environmental perceptions and behaviors.
• Demographic factors and perceived environmental threats play a significant role in shaping trust levels.
• Public health and environmental strategies should consider both societal and local trust dynamics.