Cohen’s study on moral panics identified how many elements of media reporting?

Cohen's study on moral panics identified three essential elements of media reporting that contribute to the construction and amplification of moral panic situations within society. These elements help to explain how the media portrays specific groups or events in a way that can lead to public anxiety and concern.

The first element is the identification of a group or threat that is seen as a danger to societal norms or values. The media often focuses on particular behaviors or groups that are perceived as deviant or problematic.

The second element concerns the portrayal of this group in exaggerated ways, often using sensational language or imagery that can provoke fear. This sensationalized reporting tends to oversimplify the issue and paint the group as uniformly negative or dangerous.

The third element involves the response from the public and authority figures, which often includes heightened concern, calls for action, and sometimes even legislative changes. This dynamic allows the media's portrayal to have real consequences in public perception and policy.

These three components together illustrate how moral panics are constructed and perpetuated through media narratives, significantly influencing public opinion and societal reactions. Understanding these elements is crucial for analyzing the role of media in shaping perceptions of social issues.