Dewanto hears what sounds like gunshots coming from the school parking lot.None of his classmates appear concerned,so Dewanto assumes that they know the sound was only a car backfiring or someone playing with firecrackers.What do Dewanto's beliefs illustrate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Dewanto's beliefs illustrate pluralistic ignorance, as he assumes that his classmates' lack of concern means that they know something he doesn't and therefore must be right about the nature of the sound. This phenomenon occurs when individuals in a group look to the behavior of others in ambiguous situations to determine how to act, leading them to confirm to perceived norms even if they don't necessarily agree with them.

Dewanto Hears What Sounds Like Gunshots Coming from the School