Thesis: The reality of reality TV is that such shows demonstrate a number of values that are beneficial to individuals, particularly young adults.
A. Reality shows provide a virtual community of interconnectedness for which most older and young adults yearn.
B. Reality shows appeal to our need to be part of something bigger.
C. Reality shows offer a respite from everyday pressures by diverting out attention away from our problems and focusing on the problems of others.
II. Young Adults Learn From Reality Programming
A. Reality shows provide learning on dating, family relations, friendships and dealing with sensitive issues.
B. Reality shows help viewers deal with the reality of serious illnesses like cancer.
III. Reality Shows Teach Young Viewers About Safe Sex
A. Pedro Zamora died from AIDS on MTVÆs The Real World.
B. Contestants on reality shows are often bumped or ostracized by viewers and/or other contestants due to immoral behavior.
Despite some negative impact from reality shows, for the most part they offer a number of positive lessons for young viewers.
AmericaÆs obsession with reality TV programming continues to grow as a host of shows are spawned in the wake of the success of shows like The Real World, Survivor, Who Wants to Marry A Multi-millionaire, The Bachelorette and others. While some of these shows are accused on being titillating and immoral, like Temptation Island, others like The Apprentice, The Real World, and American Idol provide positive learning for viewers, particularly young viewers. The reality of reality TV is that such shows demonstrate a number of values that are beneficial to individuals, particularly young adults.
One of the biggest benefits of reality TV programming is that it provides a community of interconnectedness that young people seek. From The Apprentice, wh
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