From Participation to Trust? Understanding Trust Dynamics in Participatory Science Communication

Trust in science is both a goal and prerequisite for science communication. While participatory methods are claimed to build this trust, supporting evidence remains limited. In an online experiment (N = 725), we investigated how different levels of participation in designing an article impact message credibility, trustworthiness, and trust intention toward a scientist. Active participation enhanced perceptions of the scientist’s benevolence and integrity but not their expertise or message credibility. Prior participation intentions moderated most effects. Conversely, awareness of others’ participation increased trust intention. These findings highlight the complexity of trust in science and the need for tailored participatory approaches.