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PSYCHOLOGICAL AND COMMUNICATION ASPECTS OF REALITY SHOWS

Z.Hudikova

Abstract

The author of the study analyses the formats of reality shows broadcasted by Slovak media with emphasis on the psychological and communication aspects intentionally employed by their creators and which recipients knowingly or subconsciously reflect. Based on observations of media content produced by Slovak and foreign media, there is an assumption that emotion and extremity can be found practically throughout the entire composition of the program, i.e. in various program formats, in the actual content and form of processing of the individual topics and in the expressions of the presenters and the participants themselves. In the context of the laws of psychology, positive and especially negative emotions attract a great deal of attention, which drives viewers to the media, and hence generates profit. Positive emotions are often depicted in television productions in connection with interpersonal transactions. They provide models and examples, building up attitudes and allow recipients to examine their real relationships in comparison with their depictions in the media. Negative emotions may also deliver a positive effect as they serve as warnings for society against negative phenomena to be guarded against and avoided. Explanatory and corrective commentary is required to deliver such effect. If, however, a television production primarily discusses negative emotions, the result is a distorted media presentation of reality, which may be reflected in society in the form of frustration and depression. The author focuses in on analysis of reality shows as this specific television format is based on the intentional presentation of various aspects of human nature, conduct and extreme expression of emotions. Creators deliberately encourage and communicate them to attract and retain the attention of the audience. Specific questions are raised and answered in the study: what kinds of behavior are specifically presented? What types of emotions are shown to the viewers? To what extent and at what moments and in what specific types of reality shows is this more pronounced?

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DOI resolver: doi.org/10.5593/sgemsocial2017/32/S11.035

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