Reality TV-New Reality TV Show Analysis

Reality Show analysis

• Do you think reality TV shows like Buckwild or Jersey Shore promote stereotypes? If so, do you think they’re just harmless entertainment, or do you think those stereotypes are dangerous?

Answer: Without question I feel that reality TV promotes stereo types. Whether it be Jersey Shore's take on "Guidos" or Honey Boo Boo's attempt at low class "red necks", television is filled with stereotypes taking advantage of cliches with little basis in reality. Taking into account the wide audience these shows reach, I feel it can lead some individuals to false beliefs, mainly younger viewers. Despite that fact, I dont consider it dangerous, and feel it is harmless. The responsibility lies on the viewers to make the obvious distinction between "reality" telelvision and the real world. You can see an example of confused young viewers below.

 

•Do you think reality TV has a responsibility to show
"reality"? Or do you think viewers know that a show’s cast is performing for an audience?

Answer: I think like all entertainment, the show's responsibility is to ENTERTAIN. Show creators do take liberties, but the audience should be informed. The viewers aren't always aware of just how much of a "performance" the shows can be, but the show runners job is to get viewers, the viewers job is to be entertained and make the distinction in their minds for themselves. Many of the shows I have seen defy what can be considered "real". It's this lack of reality that has turned me off to many reality television shows currently on TV. Below is a great example of just how unreal these shows can be.

 

 

  •Do you ever watch reality TV? What

is good, what’s bad?

I do watch some reality television but less often than in the past. I tend to like shows that the audience is aware of the "reality" aspect. Often I hate shows that cater to an audience only wanting pointless arguments and sad hookups. I tend to value the comical or shows that depict tough jobs or labor, not the shows that promote ridiculous disputes.

The Good:

The Bad: