Moral Panic

Definition

Moral panic refers to the widespread fear or anxiety that arises when a particular group or behavior is perceived as a threat to societal norms and values. This reaction often leads to exaggerated responses from the public and authorities, creating a sense of urgency to address the supposed danger. It can result in increased media coverage, heightened public awareness, and sometimes even changes in legislation aimed at controlling or eliminating the perceived threat.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral panics often occur in response to new trends, technologies, or social changes that challenge established norms.
2. The term was popularized by sociologist Stanley Cohen in his book 'Folk Devils and Moral Panics', where he analyzed the reaction to youth subcultures in Britain during the 1960s.
3. The media plays a crucial role in amplifying moral panics by sensationalizing stories and framing them in a way that evokes fear and concern among the public.
4. Moral panic can lead to real-world consequences, such as increased policing, legislative changes, and stigmatization of specific groups.
5. Examples of moral panic throughout history include fears about witchcraft, gang violence, and more recently, concerns over social media's influence on youth.

Review Questions

• How does moral panic shape public perception of social issues?
  • Moral panic significantly shapes public perception by amplifying fears surrounding certain behaviors or groups that are seen as threats. This can lead to a distorted view of reality where the perceived danger is exaggerated beyond its actual significance. As a result, communities may respond with fear-driven actions rather than informed decisions, which can create lasting impacts on social attitudes and policies.
• Discuss the role of media in creating and sustaining moral panic in society.
  • Media plays a critical role in both initiating and perpetuating moral panic by framing narratives that emphasize danger and urgency. Sensationalist reporting often focuses on extreme cases or outliers, neglecting broader contexts or data that could mitigate fears. This focus can skew public perception, causing widespread anxiety and prompting calls for action that may not align with actual risks.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of moral panic on marginalized communities.
  • The long-term consequences of moral panic on marginalized communities can be profound and damaging. These communities may face increased surveillance, discriminatory practices, and stigmatization as society reacts defensively to perceived threats. Such responses can lead to systemic injustices, making it harder for these groups to integrate into society or access resources, thus perpetuating cycles of marginalization and fear.

Related terms

Scapegoating: The practice of blaming an individual or group for problems or negative outcomes, often diverting attention from the actual causes.

Social Control: The mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that societies use to regulate individual behavior and maintain conformity to established norms.

Media Sensationalism: The practice of exaggerating or embellishing news stories to attract attention and provoke emotional reactions from the audience.