Moral Panic - GCSE Sociology Definition

A moral panic is a widespread and disproportionate reaction by a society or group to a perceived threat, often fuelled by media coverage and public discourse. It typically involves elevating an issue, which may be minor or misrepresented, to a level of significant concern, causing anxiety and fear within the community. This reaction often leads to calls for action against the perceived threat, including changes in policy or social behaviour.

For students studying GCSE Sociology, understanding moral panic is crucial because it illustrates how media and societal reactions can shape public perception and influence social norms and policies, often targeting marginalised groups and leading to potential scapegoating.