The Bleak Reality of Reality TV

How much more can we really take of this ‘thing’ called “Reality TV” before we realize we've created a cultural monster that errodes the very fabric of dignity, morals and values that we claim to work so hard to instill in our children?

Every season, we’re all guilty of surfing the waves of cable TV channels to check the next line-up to see who’s the new victim of shameless twerking for brand dollars. But the bigger question is, are those dollar amounts really worth it or is it all a ploy for the attention-seeking narcissist and advertising bucks?

When I look at my 17 year-old niece and contemplate all the disturbing trends in pop culture that is forced upon her, I think about my job as a media influencer by way of public relations and I feel responsible. And I think, We’ve got to do better!

There’s “Basketball Wives”, “Love & Hip Hop”, “The Real Housewives”, “The Bachelor”, “Big Brother” and even on ABC Family — a supposed family channel there are reality TV Shows that force conversations about sex and gender upon 2 year olds and that’s absurd! But we sit back and keep quiet for fear of verbal backlash from imaginary ‘powers that be.’

As brand influencers — whether of products, personalities or celebrities, we have to start using our power for good and not just for the good of bank accounts, bottom-lines and contract re-ups. But for the good of our global media world.

When ish hits the fan — and it will — think about what role you or your clients may have played when you said yes to the buffoonery we’re watching through the phenomenon of reality TV.

@1stLadyofPR is a #Branding Nerd. Lover of #Archetypes. #PRTherapist. Author of #1stLadyRules + Founder of @TMORRISONAGENCY.