CRITICISM & PRODUCER RESPONSE
In recent years, there have been numerous headlines concerning the wellbeing of child participants in reality television.
Popular series, such as Dance Moms and Honey Boo Boo, have been criticized for sexualizing and exploiting its child participants. Amidst controversy show producers are expected to take responsibility; after all, they oversee casting, filming, and broadcasting. However, producers are taking a stand. Most claim that it is the law, not themselves, that should be blamed.
The majority of public outcry stems from the belief that reality television, as the name suggests, should only convey what is authentic. However, in order to increase viewership (see Barton), producers will often edit film to dramatize situations (termed "Frankenbiting"). These edits, which do not require cast approval, can harm the public image of participants. Unfortunately, child cast members are not an exception. Shows will often portray a child as extremely prideful, needy, or troublesome. In some cases, such as in Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, a child's exaggerated personality is the focus of the show. Producers can further edit footage to highlight a child's failures and conflicts. This results in a juicer episode and higher ratings. However, for cast members, the consequences are devastating; they can range from harsh internet criticism to crude parodies of child personalities. Thus, while reality television can effectively build careers, it can just as easily destroy reputations.
Popular series, such as Dance Moms and Honey Boo Boo, have been criticized for sexualizing and exploiting its child participants. Amidst controversy show producers are expected to take responsibility; after all, they oversee casting, filming, and broadcasting. However, producers are taking a stand. Most claim that it is the law, not themselves, that should be blamed.
The majority of public outcry stems from the belief that reality television, as the name suggests, should only convey what is authentic. However, in order to increase viewership (see Barton), producers will often edit film to dramatize situations (termed "Frankenbiting"). These edits, which do not require cast approval, can harm the public image of participants. Unfortunately, child cast members are not an exception. Shows will often portray a child as extremely prideful, needy, or troublesome. In some cases, such as in Here Comes Honey Boo Boo, a child's exaggerated personality is the focus of the show. Producers can further edit footage to highlight a child's failures and conflicts. This results in a juicer episode and higher ratings. However, for cast members, the consequences are devastating; they can range from harsh internet criticism to crude parodies of child personalities. Thus, while reality television can effectively build careers, it can just as easily destroy reputations.
"It’s hard to do a reality show when there’s so much crying and drama. The producers set it up to make us all yell at each other."
-Maddie Ziegler, 12 (2015 Interview) |
Producers who have responded to the issue have consistently spoken to reassure audiences. In response to accusations of frankenbiting, Bill Hayes, producer of Figure 8 Films, emphasizes that the company's goal is to tell the stories of their subjects accurately and respectfully. To further assuage audience concern for the well-being of child participants, broadcasters claim they take measures to ensure that children are not overworked or forced to film. TLC (The Learning Channel) even talks with parents extensively prior to filming to set guidelines and restrictions. These guidelines ensure a child's education and safety are prioritized.
When asked about the lack of uniform policy protecting these children, producers place the blame on a lack of actionable oversight. According to producers, existing laws are so vague they might as well be labelled 'nonexistent'. In one response, Hayes states frankly, "Have you ever tried to apply for a permit that you didn't need? I would love for there to be more clarity because it is disturbing to be accused of something we're not guilty of." Consequently, producers resort to their own policies; for Hayes, it is a required background check and evaluation of participant motivations.
When asked about the lack of uniform policy protecting these children, producers place the blame on a lack of actionable oversight. According to producers, existing laws are so vague they might as well be labelled 'nonexistent'. In one response, Hayes states frankly, "Have you ever tried to apply for a permit that you didn't need? I would love for there to be more clarity because it is disturbing to be accused of something we're not guilty of." Consequently, producers resort to their own policies; for Hayes, it is a required background check and evaluation of participant motivations.
"Accuracy is very important, as is sensitivity and respect for our subjects and our audience. We consider ourselves 'caretakers' of these people's stories."
-Figure 8 Films, Website (Front-page) |
NOTE:
Many experts in law and psychology agree that this genre requires better regulation and clearer standards for child participants (E.g. Royal, Dayna). Equally emphasized is the necessity of regulation that will protect child welfare while preserving freedom of speech. The goal is not to remove the rights or limit the creativity of producers, but make the genre safer for children involved. Finding this balance will be the next challenge. To learn more about proposed policies, please see additional readings.