Revisits previous research on rumor and makes suggestions as to how the focus of rumor research needs to be expanded and to include unique theories and designs which have not been considered before when analyzing the dissemination of rumor. Topics discussed include an historical perspective of the theoretical bases of rumor research, source credibility and social cognitive and behavioral factors of rumor research, and related social psychological theories. There are a variety of variables which should be included in the study of rumor transmission, especially in light of the predominance of rumors and the importance they play in our society today. Scholars of varying disciplines need to expand and to explore the demographic, social, and psychological aspects of the rumor transmitter to determine if there are any significant linkages with rumor-mongering. Many of these related interdisciplinary research designs included herein, need to be analyzed, for they are important criteria to consider when determining transmission. If it is possible to more clearly determine the similarities that exist among rumor-mongers, then perhaps it will be possible to deter insidious rumors at the point of their genesis, before they can have an impact on society. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2018 APA, all rights reserved)