Realism Matters: The Role of Perceived Realism in The Biggest Loser

Abstract

This study investigated implications of viewing The Biggest Loser, NBC’s popular reality television show. Using online survey data collected from 613 participants, results suggest that exposure to the program is positively associated with perceived realism of the program, which in turn is positively associated with developing internal weight locus of control. Meanwhile, internal weight locus of control is positively associated with audience members’ exercise behavior, meaning the higher level of internal weight locus of control the audience members develop, the more likely they are to engage in physical exercise. This study offers evidence that health-related reality television might be a useful tool to influence audience members’ cognitions on health issues, which could potentially lead to healthy lifestyles.

Keywords:

• Obesity
• Perceived Realism
• Reality Television

Notes

[1] Mixed findings about reality television’s effects on health attitudes and behaviors suggest that intervention programs are needed to help audience members accurately evaluate the realism of entertainment media, including reality television shows, so that they would not be misguided by reality television shows.