Describe in your own words how the deviancy amplification spiral operates to produce a 'moral panic'. Illustrate with two examples. A non-sociological or common sense explanation of 'moral panic' would describe it as a justified reaction to a real threat to the moral fabric of society. However under closer inspection 'moral panic' is a complex social construction with many underlying factors. The deviancy amplification spiral (Cohen 1970s OU intro chapter p23) is part of the …showed first 75 words of 612 total…

…showed last 75 words of 612 total…in the media resulting in public concern, a response by the authorities and police force, more cases are discovered and reported which are reported in the media causing a 'moral panic'. Guidelines are set out and solutions are found e.g. drinking from bottles and more vigilance. The deviancy amplification spiral plays a large part in creating 'moral panic', however this process is very complex and may include more factors than those that are given.