Shedding Light in the Dark – Distrust as a Distinct Concept in Stakeholder Relationships
Type
working paper
Date Issued
2023-05
Author(s)
Abstract
Based on the call for an integrative view of the bright and dark sides of stakeholder relationships, we introduce the concept of stakeholder distrust. First, we enhance construct clarity by explaining why stakeholder distrust is a distinct concept and not merely the opposite of stakeholder trust, and by differentiating it from related constructs such as calculative trust and suspicion. This differentiation sharpens the boundary conditions of the dark side and sheds light on the possible grey zone between the dark and the bright side of stakeholder relationships. We then develop a casual stakeholder distrust model, whereby we elaborate on the most proximate antecedents of stakeholder distrust and how it manifests in distrust-induced cognitions, emotions, and behaviors. Our conceptualization of stakeholder distrust antecedents and consequences provides warning signals that guide stakeholder engagement on the dark side. Finally, we offer four specific directions for further research.
Funding(s)
Language
English
Keywords
dark side
distrust
stakeholder engagement
stakeholder theory
HSG Classification
contribution to scientific community
Division(s)
Additional Information
Please cite this paper: Weibel, A., Sachs, S., Schafheitle, S. D., Gaito T. (2023). Shedding Light in the Dark – Distrust as a Distinct Concept in Stakeholder Relationships. Working Paper, May 2023. St. Gallen, University of St. Gallen.