Exploring the Interplay of Cognition and Emotion in Trust Relationships With Cognitive-Affective Maps

Abstract

This paper relates to the debate on cognition-based and affect-based uni-dimensional trust by addressing the interconnectedness of cognition and emotion. It puts forward the thesis that trust is always relationship-based and that the perceived characteristics on the basis of which a trustee is considered trustworthy by a trustor in this relationship are cognitions that have different emotional values (valences). Analyzing the valences of such cognitions in trust relationships is a research desideratum, which the paper addresses by using cognitive-affective maps (CAMs) as an innovative method in trust research. To illustrate the methodology, the example of dyads of parents and early childhood educators is used as a context in which key aspects of trust are relevant. The analyses show what concepts are mutually salient and how they are valued. The findings are discussed with regard to the methodology of possible future trust research.