Entertainment on Addiction Reality Shows

Television has come quite a long way from game shows like “Wheel of Fortune” and “The Dating Game” to reality shows like “Desperate Housewives” and “Man vs. Wild.” Today, reality TV can cover anything from toddler pageants, home redecoration, and hoarding, to drug addiction and drug rehab.

Many psychologists have questioned the techniques used in drug addiction reality shows, and also the ethics of the creators and producers of such shows. “Intervention,”  “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew,” and “Addicted” are all reality TV shows showcasing drug addiction.

They depict, often in salacious detail, the drug addict abusing various substances, how they live, and what they do to obtain drugs. In a voyeuristic lens, the show exposes what the addiction has done to the user and the negative effects the addiction has on their families.

Some shows are more candid with their participants, but “Intervention” labels themselves as documentary filmmakers and then surprises the drug addict with an intervention. “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew” has been criticized for the overly-aggressive and confrontational tactics used to provoke responses during treatment. Some psychologists say this dissuades addicts, who might have considered rehab, away from getting treatment. “Addicted” has been called exploitative and voyeuristic.

However, when mainstream exposure of mental illness, the disease of addiction, and addicts themselves has long been considered a topic too taboo for public discussion shows like these attempt to help the public better understand the people who suffer from addiction. This in itself encourages addicts not to hide and avoid people who might be able to help them.

If you or someone you love is suffering from addiction, please contact the drug addiction specialists at A Better Today Recovery Services at 888-906-0952. They can answer any questions you might have about addiction, interventions, and how you can get help for yourself, or for someone you love.