Hi! It's your therapist in Bel Air, MD, back with more tips to help with your feelings in relationships. I am obsessed with reality TV! It is so entertaining and it is a great way to unwind and get out of my logical brain after a long day as a therapist. Although reality TV can be entertaining and fun, it can also cause some unrealistic expectations to form regarding relationships and it can trigger some sadness, anxiety, or even anger in viewers. In this blog, I will be unpacking why this is the case and how you can deal with the emotions that come up when watching reality TV.

Are Dating Reality TV Shows Affecting Relationships?

Dating reality shows often portray idealized and dramatized versions of relationships. This can lead to viewers having unrealistic expectations about romance, conflict resolution, and partner behavior. When reality doesn’t match up, it can create dissatisfaction and disillusionment in real-life relationships. These shows can also encourage comparisons that leave viewers feeling inadequate or unhappy with their own relationships.

What are the Effects of Reality TV?

Reality TV can have several emotional and behavioral effects on viewers. Emotionally, it can increase stress, anxiety, and lower self-esteem, particularly when viewers compare themselves to the often unrealistic portrayals of people on these shows. Behaviorally, it can promote negative values, such as superficiality or conflict-driven interaction styles, which might influence viewers' attitudes and behaviors in their own lives.

Why Do People Watch Reality TV Shows?

Reality TV provides an escape from daily life and a source of entertainment filled with drama and excitement. It also offers a way to feel connected with others through shared viewing experiences and discussions. Many people watch reality TV to unwind and disengage from their own stressors, finding comfort in the predictability of its often scripted chaos.

Negative Talk About Reality TV Casts

People often engage in negative discussions about the casts on reality TV shows, criticizing their behavior, appearance, or decisions. While this may seem harmless, it can make those listening to these critiques feel shame about their own similar experiences. This negativity can be damaging, reinforcing feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt.

What are Triggers and How Can Reality TV Trigger You?

Triggers are stimuli that evoke strong emotional reactions based on past experiences. Reality TV can include numerous triggers such as conflict, rejection, or body image issues. When a show touches on a viewer’s personal pain points, it can cause intense emotional responses, ranging from sadness to anger or anxiety.

How Can You Deal With Your Triggers in a Healthy Way?

Recognizing and acknowledging triggers is the first step to managing them. Developing coping strategies, such as mindfulness, self-care routines, and seeking support from trusted individuals, can help. It’s also beneficial to limit exposure to triggering content and find alternative, healthier forms of entertainment that do not provoke negative emotional responses. Additionally, going to therapy can provide a safe space to explore and understand your triggers, and develop effective coping mechanisms.

Would You Like a Therapist Who Can Help You Unpack Your Triggers From Reality TV?

If you feel that reality TV has set unrealistic expectations for your relationships or has triggered unresolved emotions, I invite you to reach out for support. As a therapist specializing in relationship anxiety, I can help you navigate these feelings and work towards healthier perspectives. Relationship anxiety can be worsened by the unrealistic portrayals of relationships in reality TV, but with the right support, you can develop a more balanced and fulfilling view of your own relationships. Contact me today to start your journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling life.