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The effect of social distancing on trust and solidarity

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  • Filippin, Antonio
  • Pace, Noemi

Abstract

This paper investigates the effect of social distancing on behavioral traits (trust, trustworthiness, and solidarity) that are important in interpersonal relationships. Toward this goal, we exploit the exogenous manipulation of social distancing provided by the different timing of stay-at-home orders issued in New York and Arizona during the COVID-19 outbreak. The experimental design also entails a between-subject manipulation in order to distinguish In-group vs. Out-group effects. The results show a positive In-group effect on trust, robust to the degree of compliance to the treatment, while we do not find evidence of significant effects on the other behavioral traits.

Suggested Citation

  • Filippin, Antonio & Pace, Noemi, 2025. "The effect of social distancing on trust and solidarity," Journal of Behavioral and Experimental Economics (formerly The Journal of Socio-Economics), Elsevier, vol. 119(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:soceco:v:119:y:2025:i:c:s2214804325000680
    DOI: 10.1016/j.socec.2025.102402
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    JEL classification:

    • C81 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Data Collection and Data Estimation Methodology; Computer Programs - - - Methodology for Collecting, Estimating, and Organizing Microeconomic Data; Data Access
    • C91 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Design of Experiments - - - Laboratory, Individual Behavior
    • D81 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Criteria for Decision-Making under Risk and Uncertainty

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