The Importance of Saying What You Believe

Research shows that not taking a stand on controversial social and political issues can backfire, leading to mistrust and the perception of strategic concealment. People are more likely to trust and work with leaders who express their beliefs while allowing others to disagree. This approach, known as leading as a non-anxious presence, fosters self-differentiation and reduces anxiety within the system. Participants in a study preferred partnering with individuals who disagreed with their views rather than those who stayed neutral, indicating that taking a stand increases trust and perceived trustworthiness.