Perceived Responsiveness and Public Trust in Local Governance: A Case Study of Islamabad

Author: Sadaf Hameed, Dr Shafei Moiz Hali, Dr Zain Rafique 

Abstract

The level of public trust is intricately linked with effectiveness of local governance. The good governance theory stresses that principles of accountability, transparency, and responsiveness impact the government performance. Responsiveness in particular is crucial in building people’s trust in their respective government. The research aims to quantitatively investigate the association of the Perceived Responsiveness and Public Trust in government among the residents of Islamabad. A cross-sectional study design was employed using a structured survey questionnaire. It was distributed in online and physical formats among 373 participants using convenience-based sampling technique. A five-point Likert scale was used to measure the Perceived Responsiveness and Public Trust in government. The instruments for both variables were adapted and the reliability of the scale was checked in a pilot study. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and Regression analysis was conducted to test the predictive power of Perceived Responsiveness on Trust in Government in the study. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between Perceived Responsiveness and Public Trust in Local Government (r= 0.709, p< 0.01). The regression analysis indicate that perceived responsiveness is a strong predictor of Public Trust in Local Government institutions. (β = 0.709, p < 0.001). The results of the study support the theoretical assertions that perceived responsiveness is a significant determinant of public trust in local government. Authorities who respond timely and effectively to citizen’s demands enjoy higher degree of public trust in them.

Keywords

Local Government, Perceived Responsiveness, Trust, good governance, Pakistan.

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DOI: 10.52279/jlss.07.03.205216  | 205-216 PDF