Existential Mistrust is “the destruction of trust in human existence is the inner poisoning of the total human organism from which this sickness stems” (Arnett & Arneson, 1999, p. 16). “Existential mistrust as an ‘atmosphere of suspicion and judgment’” (Arnett & Arneson, 1999, p. 16). Additionally, “‘existential mistrust’ moves us to distrust all aspects of everyday life rather than engaging in the occasional and situational us of mistrust” (Arnett & Arneson, 1999, p. 16). Essentially, when someone experiences existential mistrust they do not trust anyone, which could be problematic because it is difficult to let people in or see others as they truly are. In relation to Hillbilly Elegy, Mamaw proves time and time again that she does not trust
