HARM VERSUS BENEFIT
Childhood is a time of discovery and exploration. Reality television appears to foster this ideal by potentially helping its child-participants develop careers, friendships, and character (see Ghosh and Mukhopadhyay on transcendence). Proponents of this view argue that reality television is a launchpad for success; it gives children new opportunities. For instance, through Maddie Ziegler's fame from Dance Moms, she was able to establish her own fashion collection (via Mod Angel). She was also able to dance in Sia’s four time grammy nominated music video “Chandelier." However, research by psychologists such as Ghosh and Mukhopadhyay and Commons et al. reveal that the effects of child participation and early fame are more complex. Factors such as stress and family environment can greatly affect the livelihood of a child participant.
For example, in a study conducted in 2015, Ghosh and Mukhopadhyay found that while children who participate in competition-driven reality television have greater self transcendence, they also have lower levels of self-esteem than non-participants. This is not surprising. Having a child compete in front of an audience of millions is a far cry from playground competition. Failure, embarrassment, and the possibility of parent disappointment can increase pressure and lower a child’s confidence. Unfortunately, if a child is consistently in an environment which breeds insecurity and anxiety, he or she is likely to experience the negative effects of a low self-esteem. These effects, according to developmental psychologist Meggy Delaunay, include an increased "shyness and neglectfulness." Research published by the American Psychological Society has further shown low self-esteem to be linked with "aggression, antisocial behavior, and delinquency" in children (sampled ages 11-14).
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"A child’s most vulnerable moments... |
Even shows which are not competitive can harm self-esteem; unstable environments are enough to cause damage. Shows such as “Kate Plus 8” have cameras extensively following children into their homes. A child’s most vulnerable moments, such as during tantrums and timeouts, are captured for the world to see. However, self-esteem is not the only issue at hand. Another concern relates to the fundamental nature of reality television. In this genre, cast members play themselves; there is no separation between self and on-screen character. Psychologists argue that on the long run, this lack of separation can be detrimental for a child’s sense of identity (see Shmueli Pg.303). Therefore, having children participate on reality television is a risky arrangement. A child's well-being will be put on the line regardless of what benefits may ensue.
Linked below: After drama breaks out among the parents, Dance Moms dancer Brynn Rumfallo (12) leaves the studio with her mother in tears (Season 6, Episode 12, 03/2016).
http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/dance-moms/season-6/episode-12
Source: Lifetime
http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/dance-moms/season-6/episode-12
Source: Lifetime