Airing Your Phobias On Reality TV? Is This Really a Good Idea?
I recently received an unusual notice in my e-mail box. Apparently a new cable show is recruiting people with phobias. The ad assures me that if I participate, I will "get PAID and receive HELP" with my phobia. I find the part about pay very interesting, as earlier in the notice it is stated that there is no pay and the project is non-union. Perhaps if America votes me the most pathetic, then I will win a cash prize? The notice states that I must have an "unusual" phobia to participate--none of this run of the mill spider phobia or social phobia stuff for them! Maybe America just has to decide that I have the most unusual phobia?
I was unable to discover the name of the show, the network, or any details whatsoever, as I was unwilling to sign up for an account with the casting agency. It's entirely possible that this is a real show offering legitimate therapy with a trained professional. Maybe everyone receives an appearance fee.
Still, I feel very uncomfortable with the entire premise of the show. As you know all too well, phobias can be embarrassing, frustrating, and devastating to your life. While it certainly wouldn't be the first "reality show" to capitalize on people's struggles, I personally draw the line at exploiting any mental health condition. I watch as much reality TV as the next person, but I tend towards shows like Survivor and The Amazing Race where, ostensibly, contestants have undergone rigorous mental health screening. A psychologist is also available to these shows' contestants (privately, off the air) whenever they need assistance. Somehow that feels a lot more ethical to me.
What do you think? Would you allow your phobia to be exploited on national television? Is the pay and free treatment worth the inevitable pain and embarrassment? Or do you believe that the show will indulge in stunt casting, hiring out of work actors who "claim" to have "outrageous" phobias? Your thoughts on the topic are welcome!
Although, I do respect diversity in people guts and opinions, I would still like my privacy on whatever my body and mind are undergoing. It is up to my trusted doctor, my private lawyer and within the family circles who will dearly help me and understand me to keep my personal data and sickness within the confine of my family circles.
I agree with you Lisa, that its so uncomfortable to see yourself being scrutinize by the public on whatever your phobia is. The public must not be the place to put your personal lives be shown but rather to the experts that will help you solve your problem.
I am one of those people who have a rare phobia. I used tobe embarresed by it, and all of the issues it brings. My phobia is emetaphobia. I have a phobia of throwing up or seeing other people throw up. I would not do it for the ” pay” or free treatment. But I myself would not mind speaking about it or showing it on tv. I feel that too many people keep there ” strange” phobias secret, and it makes people who have them feel like they are not normal. The reality of it is that there are many people with strange phobias that do feel embarrased. I feel there is no reason for it. MY phobia affects my everyday life, and can sometimes make me miserable. I refuse to drink, I dont eat at most resteraunts, I dont eat meat. I am obessed with washing my hands. Phobias can make people have abnormal rituals and habits. I think it would be a great idea for someone to make a show on this, simply so that people with these ” strange phobias” can realize they are not alone. Those who simply are too embarrassed by it should not go on tv. I would rather watch a show like this that helps people, then watch a show like survivor where people do stupid stuff for money.