Reality television offers many people an opportunity to do or experience something beyond their normal lives. Reality television shows offer cash prizes and possible lucrative contracts. Reality stars can cash in on their fame with possible endorsement deals as well.

Why do people appear on reality TV?

Reality television gives us a way to look into the lives of “normal people”, allowing for access into their daily activities — access were not typically privy to. Others have posited that the desire to watch reality TV stems from fantasies about easily acquiring fame.

What are the benefits of reality TV?

Reality TV excels in showcasing the lives of others, which can be extremely beneficial when raising awareness for mental illnesses. For example, the show “Hoarders: Buried Alive” on TLC, gives an inside look into a disorder that had very little attention before the show aired.