How does media influence the public's perception of crime, potentially leading to moral panic and changes in social policy?

Media plays a powerful role in shaping how we think about crime. When news outlets constantly report on violent crimes or sensational stories, it can make people feel like crime is more common than it really is. This heightened fear can lead to moral panic, where the public becomes overly worried about crime and demands immediate action from the government. For example, if a crime story goes viral, people might push for stricter laws or harsher punishments, even if statistics show crime rates are actually falling. As a result, media coverage can significantly influence public opinion and lead to changes in laws that may not always be justified by facts.