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Our Obsession with Reality Television

 

            When you think of reality TV what comes to mind? Why do people get so hooked to this type of programming? Reality TV is one of the most popular television programs out today. Cynthia M. Frisby explores reasons why millions of viewers are addicted to reality TV in her essay "Getting Real with Reality TV." Frisby speaks about how different factors affect the viewers and make them want to watch reality TV shows.
             Frisby first discusses how genres and how media gratification makes viewers want to watch reality TV. The main genres are game shows, dating shows, and talent shows, shows that are generally cheaper to produce, so if they dont make high ratings they are replaced. Frisby then states, the success of reality TV is because, "it plays off real-life concern-looking for love, competing to win a job or big prize, or becoming a millionaire-situations (or dreams) that most people casn relate to." (258). The media gratification is anothe point Frisby touches on, which has six gratifications of media and they are information or surveillance, escape, passing time, entertainment, social viewing or status enhancement, and relaxation. People generally compare themselves to contestants on these shows for variest of reasons. Some viewers compare related abilities, behavior, and to lift their spirits up about their lives or personal situations. One type of camparison that people use when comparing themselves to reality TV contestants is called upward comparison, which is when those made with others who are superior to or better off than oneself. Another comparison is a downward comparison which is when a social comparison involves a target who is inferior, incompetent, or less fortunate. There are alot of factors that viewers consider when they choose which reality TV show to watch.
             Frisby then takes a survey and illastrates how reality TV captivates viewers. Contacted 110 people to complete a uses and gratification survey, which listed 37 reality shows and the goal of the survey was to demonstrate that social comparisons may be elicited by certain television content and to see if viewers use reality television images and content as a source of social comparison.


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