Suchergebnisse

G. Allport & L. Postman's theory about rumor, based on exp's, states that rumors become less accurate as they are passed on. T. Caplow's theory, based on observations of rumors in existing groups, appears to contradict Allport & Postman by suggesting that in this situation rumors become more accurate. The diff between these'2 views comes from the segmental nature of the observations upon which they are based. When the situation in which the rumor is spreading is categorized by 2 variables both theories are seen to be correct for their particular situation. The 1st variable is whether the individual can be described as having a critical, uncritical, or transmission set re the rumor. The 2nd variable is whether the individual engages in a single interaction or in multiple interactions in discussing the rumor. Multiple interactions create a situation in which the effects of taking one or another set to the rumor are amplified. Thus in multiple interaction critical ability can be repeatedly exercised & the rumor gains accuracy. If critical ability is absent the effect of multiple interactions is to create new variants on the theme & reduce accuracy. Data from a message diffusion study & a study of PO re the A. Eichmann trial support the view that critical ability & multiple interaction work as expected. AA.