With the now infamous stand-up comedian and wannabe shayar Munawar Faruqui securing the trophy, Bigg Boss 17 has finally come to an end. After a gruelling, drama-packed season of 3 months, the reality show is still the talk of the town. Discourses about the participants and polarising opinions about who should have won are still prevailing on social media.
However, through all this humdrum, one question begs an answer- Why do we care so much about petty fights and petty inconveniences of people who took home crores in fees, while the rest of us return to our regular lives after fully immersing ourselves in a carnival of blood-curdling insults, love triangles, and questionable representations.
Regularly watching problematic people make a complete joke of their private lives and public images, backstabbing relationships, and toxic unnecessary semi-physical brawls is bound to have an impact on us viewers. Right?
Reality TV Shows Impact Mental Health
According to a study conducted by researchers from Central Michigan University, reality TV shows like Bigg Boss, Splitsvilla, Roadies and many more are not just ‘harmless entertainment.’ In fact, the study found that following an episode of reality TV that depicted verbal and relational aggression, the viewers expressed a heightened aggression in their own behaviour.
Moreover, reality TV also skews our perception of reality. Despite numerous creators and producers admitting that 70-80% of any reality show is highly scripted or prompted, 2016 data published by One Poll found that 42% of 25-34-year-olds believe reality TV dramas are completely genuine and not scripted.
Numerous other studies and surveys have found the following key points on how reality TV affects our mental health:
- Comparison and Self-Esteem: Reality shows often showcase curated and sensationalised versions of reality, creating an unrealistic standard for viewers. Constant exposure to such content can lead to unhealthy comparisons, negatively impacting self-esteem and body image.
- Conflict and Aggression: Many reality shows thrive on conflict and drama, often promoting aggressive behaviour among participants. Witnessing intense confrontations and emotional turmoil can evoke stress and anxiety in viewers, contributing to a hostile viewing environment.
- Normalising Toxic Behavior: Reality TV often rewards manipulative or deceitful behaviour, sending a message that such actions are acceptable or even commendable. Case in point- Constant whitewashing of Munawar Faruqui’s borderline predatory approach towards young, barely-of-age girls. This normalisation of toxic behaviour can influence viewers, especially younger audiences, to replicate these actions in their own lives.
- Social Isolation and Escapism: Excessive consumption of reality TV can lead to social isolation as viewers may prioritise screen time over real-world interactions. Using these shows as escapism might provide temporary relief but can contribute to feelings of loneliness and detachment.
Strategies for a Healthier Viewing Experience
Escaping the clutch of binge-worthy and highly stimulating television is not as easy for most people. It takes a certain level of self-love and societal awareness to make this seemingly hard decision, two traits that are unfortunately hard to come by.
Moreover, what is right and what is wrong, no mortal has the actual answer to this, only a hypothetical guess. So, if you still want to continue watching violent, deceitful, and morally compromised reality TV like me, the least you can do is do so mindfully. Here’s how:
- Moderation is Key: Limit the time spent watching reality TV shows. Balancing screen time with other activities and social interactions helps maintain a healthier perspective on reality.
- Critical Consumption: Approach reality TV with a critical mindset. Remember that the content is edited for entertainment, and not all aspects of the participants' lives are accurately portrayed.
- Diverse Media Consumption: Broaden your media diet by including a variety of genres and content. Exposure to positive and informative content can counterbalance the negative effects of reality TV.
- Encourage Open Conversations: Foster open discussions with friends and family about the impact of reality TV on mental health. Sharing perspectives can help create awareness and promote mindful viewing habits.
- Choose Positive Alternatives: Opt for entertainment that uplifts and inspires rather than fuels negative emotions. Positive content can contribute to a more optimistic and fulfilling viewing experience.
While reality TV shows like Bigg Boss offer entertainment value, it's essential to acknowledge their potential impact on mental health. By adopting mindful viewing habits, encouraging critical thinking, and diversifying media consumption, we can strike a balance between entertainment and mental well-being, and at the very least, stop idolising problematic reality TV contestants. Let's prioritise a healthier relationship with the content we consume and ensure that our entertainment choices contribute positively to our overall mental health.