From Trust in Source to Trust in Content: How Parents’ Evaluation of Trustworthiness Shifts After First Impressions of an Evidence-Based Parenting Advice App

This study examined how parents’ trust in an evidence-based parenting app is formed before and during initial use. In a sample of 106 parents, the study found that trust was related to intention to use the app. General trust in developmental science predicted trust in the app prior to first use. Transparency was identified as the key factor contributing to changes in trust after first use, while content quality had a marginal effect. Overall, the study highlights the importance of both trust in scientific disciplines and content-related transparency and quality cues for effective digital delivery of parenting advice.