The Psychology of Colleague Trust and Job Satisfaction: A Study of South Indian Policing
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Abstract
This study explores the relationship between colleague trust and job satisfaction among police officers in five South Indian states-Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana. It further examines whether gender and rank moderate this relationship within a demanding, hierarchical, and male-dominated occupational structure. Employing a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 622 officers representing lower, middle, and top ranks through a structured questionnaire. Colleague trust was assessed using the Workplace Trust Survey, and job satisfaction was measured with the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire. Hierarchical regression analysis indicated that colleague trust significantly and positively predicted job satisfaction (β = .46, p < .001). Gender and rank moderated this relationship, with the positive effect of trust being stronger among female officers and those in lower ranks. Thematic analysis of open-ended responses revealed that trust enhances psychological safety, emotional security, and teamwork, while distrust contributes to dissatisfaction, stress, and reduced morale. The findings underscore that the dynamics of trust in policing are shaped by organizational hierarchy and gendered experiences. Enhancing trust among colleagues can therefore play a critical role in improving officer satisfaction and institutional performance. Policy recommendations include implementing peer-support initiatives, transparent promotion systems, and leadership programs that cultivate a culture of mutual respect and trust. Strengthening such interpersonal and organizational dimensions is vital to advancing well-being, motivation, and professionalism within South Indian police services.
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