Reality television has become a staple in the homes of many Americans, including myself. Such shows give us a chance to view the lives of others from the outside looking in. In many cases, the shows focus on issues that many families contend with on any given day; thus, the name “reality”. Reality television is a genre of television programming that presents purportedly unscripted dramatic or humorous situations, documents actual events, and usually features ordinary people instead of professional actors (www.wikipedia.org).
Some of the latest reality shows include Teen Mom, Hoarders, and Intervention. Teen Mom, as you might imagine, depicts the life of a teenage mother and her struggles. This show hits home with many because it is a prevalent issue in our society, teenage pregnancy. I think the shows gives hope to teen moms around the globe but also may prevent some teens from engaging in sexual activity or even encourage those who are sexually active to employ safe sex measures.
Hoarders’ showcases the lives of those individuals, young and old, who are addicted to collecting things. Those things range from things of little to no value to very valuable items, family treasures, junk, and even animals. It is frightening to see the living conditions in which some of the people live. Many times the house is so filthy that it is a hazard for anyone to occupy the home. Other times the house is an organized mess, filled to the ceiling with ‘things’. There are times when the individual is aware of the hazards in which they live and there are other times when the individual is naïve to the danger or risks the living conditions pose.
My favorite reality show is Intervention. This show revolves around addiction; drugs, alcohol, or any other addiction considered to be damaging. The addict is filmed engaging in their addictive behavior over a certain period of time. The show’s counselors meet with the family and friends to get a better understanding of the depth of the problem, the underlying issues, etc. In doing so, they are able to devise a plan of treatment. However, it is up to the addict as to whether or not they accept the treatment being offered. Intervention brings awareness to the possibilities of recovery. It also gives hope to families that feel helpless. Lastly, it shows families that they are not alone in their struggle.
References
www.wikipedia.org
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