To Give or Not to Give? Investigating the Effects of Trust on Time Banking Participation: A Longitudinal Study in Hong Kong Aging Population

Prior studies have found that trust is a key factor to the success of collaboration because trust is the foundation for individuals to justify their contribution decisions or to freely share their resources (Lin, 2007; Robert et al., 2009). However, establishing and sustaining trust is challenging (Kramer, 1999; McKnight et al., 1998). This empirical research is the first to investigate individuals’ swift trust and knowledge-based trust development and their trusting behaviors in relation to time banking via a longitudinal approach. We propose a three-stage model drawn from trust transfer theory, social support theory, and organizational justice theory to explain and predict individuals’ time banking participation, combining online surveys and a qualitative focus group study. We will empirically test the research model with a three-wave longitudinal survey of students from one large higher education institution with the assistance of a NGO (Sik Sik Yuen) in Hong Kong. We will conduct our data analysis by using Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM). Finally, a focus group investigation will be conducted to augment the insights gained from the survey findings. The long-term objective of this study is to promote time banking activities in Hong Kong so as to alleviate the excessive burden on the public health care system and attract more manpower for elderly care services. Also, there will be practical and educational implications for NGOs and tertiary education.