Who is often characterized as the "folk devil" in contemporary society?

The term "folk devil" refers to a person or group who is portrayed as a threat to societal values and interests, often characterized by moral panic and media sensationalism. In contemporary society, pedophiles are frequently depicted in this manner. This perception is fueled by extensive media coverage that highlights the risks associated with child sexual abuse, leading to heightened public fear and concern.

The characterization of pedophiles as folk devils stems from the combination of their actions, which are fundamentally viewed as abhorrent and dangerous, especially when involving children, who are seen as vulnerable and needing protection. This label amplifies public anxiety and often results in calls for more stringent laws and regulations, reflecting a societal consensus that this group poses significant harm.

Other groups, such as rapists, serial killers, and drug dealers, also attract societal concern but do not carry the same pervasive stigma and fear associated with the potential harm to children that pedophiles do, making them less prominent in the context of being labeled as folk devils in contemporary discussions. The societal response to pedophiles encapsulates the essence of moral panic, emphasizing the urgency to address perceived dangers to children, thus solidifying their status as folk devils in modern narratives.