Andy Dehnart, the Director of Journalism at Stetson University in Florida, developed a TV-relationship with Mr. Rogers as a child, and guess what? He didn’t feel lonely anymore. Having a genuine connection with someone on television builds your self-esteem. We want to feel special; Facebook and Twitter are just a few examples of that human instinct.

Though it may have the stereotype as the lowest form of culture, reality shows are a safe way to react with people you wouldn’t otherwise know. It’s not like actors and fiction, because these people face real consequences with their actions, allowing the audience to connect.

And as for those actors and fiction: sitcoms took up 11.4% of average viewing, reality TV gathered 15.5%. There are 560 reality shows out there, and as long as the audience trusts that it is real and genuine, Dehnart says it will add joy to your life.

Image provided by MySouthWaterfront

Sourced: TEDxTalks

Curated: Online Editor Aryssah Stankevitsch @stnkvtsch