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The Effects of Within- and Between-Group Competition on Trust and Trustworthiness among Acquaintances

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  • Guofang Liu
  • Chongde Lin
  • Ziqiang Xin

Abstract

Several studies have indicated that between-group competition is a key stimulator of trust and trustworthiness. Another important but neglected type of competition may also affect trust and trustworthiness: within-group competition, especially competition among acquaintances. The present study investigated the effects of both within- and between-group competition on trust and trustworthiness, which were measured using an investment game played by acquaintances. We found that, compared to the participants' performance in the non-competition condition, when individuals were motivated to compete with their in-group members or the other groups for financial rewards, they demonstrated more trust. When individuals were motivated to compete with their in-group members, they exhibited lower trustworthiness than in non-competition and between-group competition. In addition, within-group competition decreased the trustor's payoff while both within- and between- group competition increased the trustee's payoff. Finally, we found that males trusted their group members more than females.

Suggested Citation

  • Guofang Liu & Chongde Lin & Ziqiang Xin, 2014. "The Effects of Within- and Between-Group Competition on Trust and Trustworthiness among Acquaintances," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 9(7), pages 1-5, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0103074
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0103074
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