What is required for public outrage to be classified as a moral panic?

The classification of public outrage as a moral panic primarily hinges on the presence of high-profile media coverage. When the media extensively covers a specific issue, it can amplify public concern and hysteria, framing the situation in a way that often exaggerates the threat. This intense media focus can create a perception that the situation is more dire than it may be, leading to a collective emotional response defined as moral panic.

Public demonstrations or government responses may indeed arise as a consequence of moral panic, but they are not foundational requirements for its classification. Moral panic primarily relies on how issues are portrayed and sensationalized in the media, facilitating widespread public fear or concern, regardless of the duration or specific governmental action taken. Thus, high-profile media coverage serves as a catalyst, driving the overwhelming response that characterizes moral panic.