Which component sits in the denominator of the trust equation?

• A. Self-orientation
• B. Credibility
• C. Intimacy
• D. Reliability

Answer: (A)

The trust equation treats trust as a ratio where three positive drivers multiply in the numerator, and self-orientation sits in the denominator, pulling trust down when it increases. The three factors in the numerator—credibility, reliability, and intimacy—boost trust: credibility is belief in what you say, reliability is consistent performance, and intimacy reflects safety and closeness through understanding and care. Self-orientation, the denominator, represents putting your own interests first; when that rises, trust drops because the other party feels you’re more focused on yourself than on them or the promise. So the component in the denominator is self-orientation, while the other options are the factors that boost trust in the numerator.