Reality Television Predicts Both Positive and Negative Outcomes for Adolescent Girls

ObjectiveTo assess the influence of media, specifically reality television, on adolescent behavior.Study designA total of 1141 preteen and adolescent girls (age range 11-17) answered questions related to their reality television viewing, personality, self-esteem, relational aggression, appearance focus, and desire for fame.ResultsOur results indicated that the influence of reality television on adolescent behavior is complex and potentially related to the adolescents' intended uses and gratifications for using reality television. Reality television viewing was positively related to increased self-esteem and expectations of respect in dating relationships. However, watching reality television also was related to an increased focus on appearance and willingness to compromise other values for fame. Reality television viewing did not predict relational aggression.ConclusionThe potential influences of reality television use on adolescent girls are both positive and negative, defying easy categorization.