Does Reality Backbite? Physical, Verbal, and Relational Aggression in Reality Television Programs

Keywords

Abuse, Verbal Abuse, Physical Abuse, Relational Abuse, Television, Media

Abstract

Aggression portrayed realistically is more likely to be imitated than non-realistic aggression. However, despite its ultimate claim to reality, the portrayal of aggression in reality television programs has rarely been examined. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency and portrayal of three different types of aggression in popular reality and non-reality programs on UK television. As a whole, there was more relational aggression in reality programs than in non-reality programs. When programs were analyzed separately, some programs contained high levels of relational and verbal aggression, yet no physical aggression. Implications for television ratings are discussed.

Original Publication Citation

Coyne, S. M., *Robinson, S. L., & Nelson, D. A. (2010). Does reality backbite?: Physical, verbal, and relational aggression in reality television programs. Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media, 54, 282-298.

Document Type

Peer-Reviewed Article

Publication Date

2008-11-29

Permanent URL

http://hdl.lib.byu.edu/1877/5220

Publisher

Journal of Broadcasting and Electronic Media

Language

English

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Family Life

University Standing at Time of Publication

Full Professor

Link to Full Text

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