In this episode of Eyes Wide Open, Nick Thompson interviews Christine Chapais, a licensed social worker and assistant professor at Rutgers School of Social Work, about her new research on the mental wellbeing of reality TV participants.

They discuss the intersection of performing arts and social work, the impact of social media on mental health, and the ethical considerations surrounding reality TV.

Christine shares insights on disinhibition in online behavior, the importance of mindfulness, and the challenges reality TV cast members face regarding public perception and editing.

The conversation also touches on the future of reality TV contracts in light of AI risks and the need for ethical standards in entertainment. In this conversation, Christine and Nick explore the complexities of reality TV, focusing on the unfulfilled motivations and expectations of participants, the impact of narrative identity theory, and the mental health challenges faced by cast members.

They discuss the importance of informed consent, the role of editing in shaping identities, and the need for better support systems within the industry. The conversation highlights the emotional toll of disenfranchised grief and the struggle for authenticity in a highly edited environment.

Christine Chapais and Nick also explore the complex interplay between reality TV, mental health, and identity. They discuss the long-term effects of shame, the dangers of becoming a character on screen, and the need for better mental health support for reality TV participants.

They emphasize the importance of treating reality TV cast members as real people and advocate for ethical production practices. The conversation concludes with a call to action for viewers to engage with reality TV responsibly and empathetically.

Find Christine Chapais here:

Read the FULL study: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fppm0000597

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinechapais/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrissy4missy/

Find Nick Thompson here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nthompson513/ | https://www.instagram.com/the_ucan_foundation/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EyesWideOpenContent

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickthompson13/

UCAN Foundation: https://theucanfoundation.org/

Website: https://www.engagewithnick.com/