Moral Panic

Explanation

A moral panic occurs when media, politicians, or authorities exaggerate or sensationalize a perceived threat, often framing it as endangering social norms and values. Typically, certain groups (e.g., youth subcultures, migrants, marginalized communities) are scapegoated as “folk devils.” Moral panics serve to justify increased social control and punitive measures. The concept highlights how social fears are constructed and manipulated to reinforce power structures and cultural boundaries.