Moral panic

Definition

Moral panic is a social phenomenon where a group of people perceives a threat to societal values and interests, often leading to heightened emotional reactions and calls for action. This reaction can be triggered by media representations that exaggerate or distort the perceived threat, causing fear and concern among the public. The phenomenon often results in public outcry, changes in policy, and intensified scrutiny of the targeted group or issue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Moral panics often arise in response to perceived threats posed by subcultures or deviant behaviors, such as drug use or youth culture.
2. The media plays a crucial role in amplifying moral panics by sensationalizing stories and portraying the perceived threat in a negative light.
3. Historically, moral panics have led to significant social changes, including stricter laws and policies aimed at controlling the behaviors seen as threats.
4. The concept of moral panic was first articulated by sociologist Stanley Cohen in his work on the Mods and Rockers in the 1960s.
5. Moral panics can have lasting effects on the targeted group, often leading to stigmatization and social exclusion.

Review Questions

• How does the media contribute to the development of moral panics within society?
  • The media contributes to moral panics by framing issues in a way that exaggerates the perceived threat, often focusing on sensational stories that provoke strong emotional responses. This can lead to widespread fear and concern among the public, prompting calls for action against the perceived threat. By highlighting certain behaviors or groups as dangerous, the media can influence public perception and policy decisions related to those issues.
• Analyze how moral panic can lead to changes in social control mechanisms within a community.
  • Moral panic can lead to an increase in social control mechanisms as communities respond to perceived threats. This may manifest through stricter enforcement of laws, community policing initiatives, or public campaigns aimed at deterring the behaviors associated with the panic. As fear escalates, communities may prioritize order and security over individual freedoms, resulting in policies that reflect societal anxieties rather than evidence-based approaches.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of moral panic on marginalized groups within society.
  • The long-term implications of moral panic on marginalized groups can be profound and damaging. Often, these groups become scapegoated for broader societal issues, facing increased discrimination and stigmatization as a result. Policies enacted during moral panics may not only target specific behaviors but also reinforce negative stereotypes and systemic inequalities. Consequently, marginalized groups may struggle with reduced social acceptance and face barriers to integration, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage.

Related terms

Scapegoating: The act of blaming an individual or group for problems or negative outcomes, often leading to discrimination or societal backlash.

Social Control: Mechanisms, strategies, and institutions that societies use to regulate individual behavior and maintain social order.

Media Framing: The way media presents information and shapes the perception of an issue by highlighting certain aspects while downplaying others.