Research Source 4

Tayler Dooley

Bragadottir

English 201

11 March 2015

Research Assignment Source

            The fourth sources I will be using in my research paper is an article out of Penn State University written by author Jesse Hicks. The article is titled, “Probing Questions: Why Do We Love Reality Television?” The article is an investigation on reality television and the criteria it possesses that draws audiences to its programing. Hicks discusses how some RTV programs allow viewers to participate and weigh in on the action, which promotes regular viewership and satisfaction with the show. Hicks also outlines how reality television allows viewers the chance to reflect on their own lives and compare their lives to others. Since reality programs are based off of nonfictional unscripted people, viewers feel as if they are watching real people live out their lives. People can feel better about their own lives by watching misfortune play out on screen. They can also fantasize about the ideal of obtainable celebrity by watching ordinary people live out their lives on screen.

            This source will be very useful in my paper because it outlines some of the other appeals reality television has for people. The information is presented in a scientific and unbiased arrangement. I can use this source along with some of the others I have cited when discussing psychological motivations, nonfictional motivations, interactivity, etc. With that being said, the source will be very helpful when organizing my research discussion. I can use the article to provide further evidence on why and how reality television is able to captivate and attract audiences.