Viewers' Perceptions of Reality Programs

Abstract

This article describes a series of focus group interviews of young adults about reality programs. The interviews were conducted to investigate audiences' understandings of the nature, realism, and gratifications of the programming category. A central element defining reality programs was the perception that the behavior of the cast members was a reflection of their own will and personality and that their actions had consequences in terms of the outcome of the show. These factors also contributed to perceptions of the shows' realism. Participants reported enjoying the programs because of their humor and their unpredictability, which seemed to contribute to the creation of suspense and to greater involvement. Implications for further research are discussed.

Keywords:

• Reality Programs
• Perceived Realism

Her research interests focus on audiences' interpretations of mass media.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Alice Hall

Alice Hall (PhD Annenberg School for Communication, University of Pennsylvania, 2001) is an assistant professor of communication at the University of Missouri-St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63121.