Cognitive and emotional pathways of public distrust in welfare programs

Abstract

Purpose ‒ This study investigates how perceived risk shapes public distrust toward the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG) through the mediating roles of rational decision-making, self-control, and psychological fatigue. It aims to explain the cognitive and emotional mechanisms underlying public skepticism toward government welfare initiatives, addressing a theoretical and empirical gap in understanding distrust formation.

Design/Methodology/Approach ‒ Using a quantitative research design, data were collected from 384 parent respondents whose children participated in the Free Nutritious Meals Program (MBG). A purposive non-probability sampling technique was employed and the data were analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to examine both direct and indirect relationships among perceived risk, rational decision-making, self-control, fatigue, and distrust behavior.

Findings ‒ The results reveal that perceived risk significantly increases rational decision-making, self-control, and fatigue. Rational decision-making and fatigue positively mediate the relationship between perceived risk and distrust, while self-control shows no significant effect. These findings highlight that cognitive evaluation and emotional depletion jointly drive public distrust.

Originality/Value ‒ This research integrates risk perception, rational choice, and self-regulation theories to propose a dual-path model of distrust, combining cognitive and affective mechanisms often overlooked in prior studies.

Research Limitations/Implications ‒ The cross-sectional design limits causal interpretation, and self-reported data may introduce bias.

Practical Implications ‒ The findings emphasize the need for balanced risk communication, reduced cognitive overload, and transparent governance to strengthen public trust in welfare programs.