Do Reality TV Shows Have a Positive or Negative Influence on Young People?- By Ajla Angjeli

January 27, 2025

The influence of reality TV shows is a significant topic, as in today’s digital era, such shows can have both positive and negative impacts depending on their content and how viewers interpret them. Considering this, I would argue that reality shows have left a positive mark on our society.

 

Reality TV shows often serve as a form of entertainment and relaxation, helping young people escape their tiring daily routines, even if only for a few hours. When their favorite celebrities appear on screen, they often become role models for the younger generation. This can be beneficial when these celebrities display positive traits such as hard work, resilience, and kindness. Additionally, reality shows sometimes highlight stories of personal growth, talent, or success, inspiring young people to pursue their own dreams and ambitions.

 

Few people could deny that reality TV shows can also bring people closer together. Friends and family members often gather to watch their favorite programs, creating opportunities for bonding and shared experiences. These shows can spark conversations and debates, fostering communication among viewers. For instance, competitions or talent-based shows can encourage discussions about perseverance, creativity, and teamwork—valuable lessons for young people.

 

However, young people can sometimes take these shows more seriously than they should, believing the events portrayed on screen are entirely real. This can lead to unrealistic ideas about life. Many shows glamorize materialism, showcasing a celebrity lifestyle filled with luxury and things most people could only dream of. This can lure young people into prioritizing wealth and fame over more meaningful aspects of life.

 

Moreover, reality shows can sometimes encourage harmful behaviors. Celebrities often fake their on-screen personas to appear perfect or admirable to their fans, creating a false image of reality. This may lead admirers to imitate them, believing these traits are the keys to success and popularity. Furthermore, some reality shows promote discrimination or vulgar language, setting a poor example for the younger generation. Such content can reinforce stereotypes and encourage harmful behaviors.

 

In conclusion, reality TV shows have both positive and negative influences on young people. While they inspire, entertain, and bring people together, they can also promote bad examples and unrealistic perceptions of reality. To minimize these negative impacts, younger viewers should approach these programs critically, and parents should guide them in distinguishing entertainment from real life.