Confianza (English: trust) is a native Latin American form of mutual reciprocity. In the context of interpersonal relationships, its presence indicates that both parties perceive a mutual willingness to engage in favors.

Some cross-cultural theorists state that many European and North American cultures are based on universal expectations of individual conduct. "I cannot hire my relatives to work in a public institution in my care, and, in theory, even my friends I should treat equally to strangers." Social obligations are dictated based on role and reason. "If I am an electrical repairperson, I must service my list of clients in the order received because doing so is fair. If I am a police officer, I give my acquaintances tickets because I am a police officer and that's my job."

As a contrast, some Latin American countries, especially Caribbean countries, are particularist in that the most important factor influencing what individuals can do is whose trust they have gained. In the Dominican Republic, for instance, if I know a police officer, and I "tengo confianza" in him, then I may be able to have fewer problems with the law. "Todo se hace por la buena confianza y relaciones que uno las tiene con otros," or "Everything gets done based on the trust and good relationships one has with others." If the electricity goes out, it is helpful to know someone at the power company. Social obligations are dicated based on social relationships with others. "I do helpful things for my friends because friendship makes life great." Everyone needs a bit of help sometimes, after all.