Table 1 Category definitions and examples

General trust

This category describes a general ability and willingness to trust.

“In fact, trust is a basic compass in my life and determines most of my actions.”

Trust into a person’s benevolence

This category describes situations in which both the physical and emotional well-being are regarded as the trust object.

“One night I was by myself in the middle of the city after a fight with someone. I did not know how to get home and I wasn’t feeling well. A cab driver pulled over and asked me if he could drive me somewhere. I was not sure whether this was a good idea, however, I agreed and got into the car. The driver was very kind and dropped me off at home. Even though I was unsure, I trusted him blindly.”

Trust into a person’s dependability

This category describes situations that involve a practical component of trust, such as adherence to organizational agreements.

“Vacation in a secluded area with my husband. He promised to pick me up later to go back to our cabin together. It was dawning by the time he came back. I trusted him and waited patiently for his return.”

Trust into a person’s emotional reliability

This category describes situations in which one trusts into the empathic reflection and understanding of another.

“In times of crisis (mainly due to partners/relationships) I was able to tell my little sister all my problems and found comfort and security in her support (from the age of 19 years).”

Trust into a person’s competency

This category describes situations in which one trusts into the skills and abilities of another.

“Birth of first child in hospital in 2010: My midwife was with me. I got to know her in preparatory courses. Her presence made the birth much easier for me, as I was able to trust into her professional skills.”

Trust into a person’s honesty

This category describes situations in which one trusts in the honest and sincere statements of another.

“My boyfriend at the time told me he’d changed and that he wanted the relationship to work. That was the third chance I’d given him after two previous breakups and this time what he said was true.”