Household Wealth is Associated With Perceived Trustworthiness in a Diverse Set of Countries

Abstract

Interpersonal trust impacts societal and individual outcomes, affecting economic growth, democracy, and well-being. Trust levels vary both within and across countries, raising the question of what factors influence interpersonal trust. Existing research indicates that an individual’s socioeconomic status influences their level of trust, with wealthier individuals tending to be more trusting. This article examines a further effect of wealth on interpersonal trust, namely whether people perceive wealthier individuals as more trustworthy. Using a novel method for uncovering stereotypes while avoiding social desirability bias, we investigate whether wealth cues are associated with the perceived trustworthiness of targets. Our study, conducted with diverse participants across different cultures (Brazil, Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo, India, France, Nigeria, Philippines, and the United Kingdom), consistently demonstrates that wealthier targets are seen as more trustworthy. This culturally widespread negative stereotyping of poorer individuals may contribute to observed patterns of interpersonal trust.