Nicholas DiFonzo

Nicholas DiFonzo is a Professor of Psychology at Roberts Wesleyan University and chairs the Institutional Review Board. A leading expert in rumor psychology, his work bridges social psychology, organizational behavior, and Christian worldview integration, focusing on how rumors emerge during uncertainty and their ethical implications.

• Ph.D. in Social & Organizational Psychology from Temple University
• M.A. in Psychology and Counseling from Temple University and Rider College
• A.B. in Engineering from Lafayette College

His research analyzes rumor dynamics in organizational change, psychological drivers of conspiracy belief, and the role of faith in scientific inquiry. He has pioneered frameworks like the GBN-Dialogue Model for rumor transmission and explored trust-building in crisis contexts.

DiFonzo’s recent publications emphasize trends in faith-integrated rumor theory, conspiracy psychology, and social network analysis, reflecting his interdisciplinary approach to understanding uncertainty-driven communication.

• 2024 Barbara S. Muller Award for Teaching Excellence
• 2007 ForeWord Book of the Year Gold Medal
• 2014 Best Micro Paper of the Year from Group & Organization Management

He has taught courses in social psychology, research methods, positive psychology, and psychology & theology, mentoring advanced students in experimental research and theological integration. His editorial roles in journals like Journal of Psychology and Christianity further demonstrate his commitment to synthesizing rigorous scholarship with faith-informed practice.