The Transparency Trap: How AI Disclosure Erodes Trust

In this special episode of PsyberSpace, host Leslie Poston explores a new study revealing that people who disclose AI use in professional settings are trusted significantly less than those who keep it a secret. This phenomenon is linked to identity protective cognition and professional identity threats. The discussion delves into how legitimacy and social norms shape trust dynamics, the role of cognitive dissonance, and systemic issues that exacerbate the AI transparency crisis. Poston also offers potential strategies to address these challenges, emphasizing the need for a cultural shift in professional identity and transparent AI integration.

00:00 Introduction to Today's Unique Episode
01:41 The Transparency Dilemma Study
03:32 Understanding the Legitimacy Discount
04:07 Identity Protective Cognition and AI
06:29 The Role of Professional Identity
09:32 Moral Licensing and Cognitive Dissonance
19:35 Systemic Issues and Forced AI Adoption
22:06 Strategies for Cultural and Institutional Change
25:28 Conclusion and Broader Implications

References

Schilke, O., & Reimann, M. (2025). The transparency dilemma: How AI disclosure erodes trust. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 188, 104405. 

Festinger, L. (1957). A theory of cognitive dissonance. Stanford University Press.

Tajfel, H., & Turner, J. C. (1979). An integrative theory of intergroup conflict. In W. G. Austin & S. Worchel (Eds.), The social psychology of intergroup relations (pp. 33–47). Brooks/Cole.

Lamont, M. (1992). Money, morals, and manners: The culture of the French and the American upper-middle class. University of Chicago Press.
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