The measurement of mistrust among religious group members inNorthernIreland

Cultural mistrust is a protective mechanism employed by minority group members when risk of victimization from majority group members is high. In N orthern I reland, depending on the context, both C atholics and P rotestants may perceive themselves at risk of discrimination, and use similar protective strategies. This study examined the appropriateness of the C ultural M istrust I nventory in assessing mistrust among members of different religious groups within N orthern I reland. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses resulted in an 11‐item, 3‐factor measure of religious mistrust. Mistrust appears to be experienced by both C atholics and P rotestants, regardless of group status; with males reporting significantly higher levels of mistrust of the “other” group. Higher levels of mistrust were associated with higher psychological distress.