Trust as a multidimensional phenomenon in LMX relationships

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to address the construction of trust in leader member exchange (LMX) relationships as a multidimensional phenomenon and identify the importance of emotional and collective factors contributing to this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

Ten health care professionals (five leaders and five members) were interviewed to subject to qualitative thematic analysis.

Findings

Four main themes in the data were identified (work roles, collectivity, interaction and participation) and linked to two main elements of LMX trust relations: core and contextual. The results extend understanding of the construction and maintenance of trust in LMX relationships, indicating that it is a more complex and socially constructed phenomenon than previously described.

Research limitations/implications

Despite identified limitations of the study (the small amount of empirical material, interpretive research method and purposive sampling of participants), the findings reveal that constructing trust in LMX relationships is more multidimensional than generally portrayed in traditional LMX theory and its three-stage continuum. This study suggests that a broader perspective should be adopted in LMX research, treating it not only as a collective phenomenon but also considering leaders and members as emotional individuals.

Practical implications

Understanding the multidimensional nature of LMX relationships is helpful for developing interpersonal relationships in organizations and leadership practices through recognition of the importance of the transparency, practices and adequacy of mutual interaction. The results presented here may contribute to such understanding and help leaders to relate to members as both subjective individuals and parts of a complex social network. The results may also increase members' awareness of possible ways that they can promote the development of good LMX relationships in organizations.

Originality/value

The novelty of the study relates to the identification of the collective, emotional and multidimensional nature of LMX relationships.

Citation

Hirvi, S.K., Laulainen, S. and Taskinen, H. (2021), "Trust as a multidimensional phenomenon in LMX relationships", Journal of Health Organization and Management, Vol. 35 No. 1, pp. 17-33. https://doi.org/10.1108/JHOM-12-2019-0349