Reality TV Shows

Paper Summary:

This paper looks at some of the reality television shows that have been aired in the U.S. and analyzes some of the factors that have lead to their success and high ratings. It attempts to define what reality television is since hidden cameras cannot be considered essential, for some shows, especially those with a game-show feel which do not include such voyeurism. It evaluates how reality television shows follow a variety of formats and how they must contain several elements in common to distinguish them from game shows or other entertainment options. For example, all reality shows are unscripted and the contestants, or "castaways" might be strongly encouraged to act in certain ways or to wear certain things, but television producers save money on not having to hire a team of writers.

From the Paper:

""The Real World" on the other hand, depends on sex to sell its image. Viewers really only care to see the good-looking group of men and women strip down to their bathing suits or underwear and make out. The nature of the arguments on these two shows is totally different; on the Osbournes, they are far more comical because the family is so unique. Moreover, because the show is about a family and not about seven twenty-something strangers, the social dynamics depicted are totally different on "The Osbournes" than on "The Real World." Arguments between a couple married for over twenty years somehow come across as different from arguments between a cranky surfer and a catty beach bunny. Furthermore, Ozzy has a lot more practice on perfecting his various addictions, although "The Real World" illustrated a young woman struggling with alcoholism."

More papers on Reality TV Shows:

• Research Paper # 96686 : "Research Designs and Reality TV"
• Analytical Essay # 111941 : "Reality TV"
• Analytical Essay # 84343 : "Reality TV: An Analysis"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: