When the majority of a group agrees on a viewpoint, but individuals in that group think the majority disagrees, this is known as:

The scenario described refers to a situation where individuals mistakenly believe that their own private opinions differ from the group majority, creating a disconnect between personal belief and perceived group consensus. This phenomenon is known as pluralistic ignorance.

In this case, even though most members of the group share a common viewpoint, each individual incorrectly thinks that their own view is out of step with what the majority believes. This misperception can lead individuals to remain silent or conform to the perceived majority opinion, ultimately inhibiting honest discussion and authentic expression of differing beliefs.

Understanding pluralistic ignorance is important in public relations as it underscores the necessity for clear communication and fostering an environment where individuals feel safe to express their genuine viewpoints.