A Media-Generated Moral Panic Drives the Vape Debate
July 25, 2024 by colinmendelsohn.com.au
A Media-Generated Moral Panic Drives the Vape Debate
An analysis of Australian news stories has exposed the media’s role in creating a moral panic about youth vaping. The resulting outrage and distorted public opinion leads to knee-jerk, heavy-handed responses by regulators, without considering the unintended consequences or alternative options.
In reviewing media stories over a 6-month period, the researchers from the University of Queensland found that media reports were often sensationalised and inflammatory.
13.00% of the adult population are current smokers. There are approximately 2.6 million current smokers in Australia 15.20% of men are current smokers but only 10.90% of women.
SOURCE: GSTHR