Includes bibliographical references (p. 158-159).

From the results of an extensive national survey about Mormonism, pollster Gary Lawrence maintains that the misconceptions, distortions, and untruths being told about Mormons have slowed the growth of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and that the average member is best positioned to turn things around. Simple ignorance is often blamed from Mormonism's negative image, but Lawrence concludes it is also driven by fear, fear of a supposed political agenda, wealth, organizational ability, unwavering doctrine, and a unique vocabulary that is often misunderstood. He explains that individual members in their daily interactions with others are the key, and that friendly and natural conversations, the facts, simple claims, individual latitude, non-threatening invitations, and gentle mentoring are the ways Mormons can combat distortions, improve their image, and spread the gospel.