Moral panic

Definition

Moral panic refers to the intense public fear or concern that arises over a perceived threat to societal norms and values, often fueled by media coverage and public discourse. This phenomenon can lead to the vilification of certain groups or behaviors that are seen as deviant or dangerous, causing widespread anxiety and a call for action from authorities. It plays a significant role in crime and legal reporting, as it shapes how issues are presented and perceived by the public.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral panic often occurs in response to social changes or events, such as crime spikes or the emergence of new technologies, which are perceived as threatening to traditional values.
2. The media plays a crucial role in amplifying moral panic by highlighting specific incidents and framing them in a way that evokes fear and urgency among the public.
3. Certain groups, such as youth subcultures or marginalized communities, can become targets during moral panics, leading to increased scrutiny and policing of their behaviors.
4. Moral panic can result in significant changes in laws and policies, as authorities respond to public outcry with stricter regulations or enforcement measures.
5. The cycle of moral panic typically includes a triggering event, media amplification, public concern, and eventual backlash or normalization of the issue over time.

Review Questions

• How does media coverage contribute to the phenomenon of moral panic in society?
  • Media coverage is a key driver of moral panic as it often sensationalizes events and frames them in a way that incites fear among the public. When specific incidents are reported with exaggerated details or emotional language, they can create a perception that a certain behavior or group poses an imminent threat. This leads to heightened concern and anxiety within society, causing individuals to view these issues as more prevalent than they may actually be.
• Discuss the potential consequences of moral panic on targeted groups within society.
  • The consequences of moral panic on targeted groups can be severe, leading to social stigma, increased surveillance, and even legal repercussions. When a particular group is scapegoated during a moral panic, they may face discrimination and marginalization. This can create a cycle of social exclusion where those affected are further entrenched in deviance due to societal backlash, leading to heightened tensions between communities and law enforcement.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of moral panic on public policy and societal norms.
  • The long-term effects of moral panic can significantly reshape public policy and societal norms. As governments respond to heightened fears with stricter laws or regulations aimed at controlling perceived threats, this can lead to lasting changes in how certain behaviors are policed and regulated. Over time, what was once viewed as deviant may become normalized as society adapts to new definitions of acceptable behavior. Additionally, the aftermath of moral panics can result in ongoing debates about civil liberties and the balance between security and freedom.

Related terms

deviance: Behavior that violates societal norms or expectations, often leading to social sanctions and stigmatization.

scapegoating: The practice of blaming an individual or group for problems or negative events, often diverting attention from the real causes.

media sensationalism: The use of shocking or exaggerated headlines and stories by media outlets to attract attention and drive viewership, often influencing public perception.