Almost every channel features some type of reality show and its drama-filled actors. It’s hard to remember the last time families or friends could sit down and flip through channels without seeing one of these shows.

Reality television gives many viewers exactly what they want to see. It can be vulgar, explicit, comical, distressing and unscripted. All of these descriptions illustrate what many people seemed to want on television screen for some years. But has reality television gone too far?

This genre presents a wide array of topics that are also featured in scripted shows, such as: friendships, love, relationships, family ordeals, homosexuality and vanity. Since this genre is portrayed as “real,” though, these shows can have a different impact on people. Do the average viewers take into consideration the negative and positive effects that these shows have on them?

Unfortunately, these shows not only appear to exploit the vulnerable and naïve that are part of the audience, but they also take advantage of the people who make up the cast.

What viewers may not be aware of is that it’s all about viewership and ratings; the creators and producers of a reality show are not looking out for the well-being or morality of their followers. It is very well known within the entertainment industry, that if it sells, it goes.

The viewers, on the other hand, are lead to believe that the broadcasters set standards and follow a code of behavior. Should broadcasters adhere to the shows that have increased their ratings, or put an end to what has gained them popularity and pursue a code of ethics instead?

After all, reality series are pervasive and, at times, mind-boggling. To many in America, it has simply ruined television, and the minds who watch it.

Since the time reality television flourished on screen, it has greatly affected society. For one, individuals have become increasingly vain and, in a sense, alter the way they think and understand things.

Although there is a flip side to the negativity that soars amidst the phrase ‘reality television,’ there are some pros to take into account. This is the age of social media, where a person no longer has to be an ‘elite’ or ‘celebrity’ to be on national television and reach the masses. It only takes a touch of a button to find someone to relate to or admire that isn’t a ‘celebrity,’ which is encouraging to the rising workers of the upcoming generation.

It is a matter of finding ‘real’ stories for television viewers and letting go of the idea that broadcasters can assume what their viewers want to see. Now it is all about expressing the self like never before; it is where freedom of speech and freedom of expression reaches a whole new level.