Despite it being one of TV’s most complained about shows, with incidents of cheating, violence, bullying and racism, Dr Rachael Molitor, a psychologist from Coventry University, believes there are at least three “benefits” for those involved, and also for viewers at home.
Taking no chances, ITV – which is relaunching the show after it ended on Channel 5 in 2018 – has announced a “welfare package” to monitor and care for contestants’ mental health as the show returns to our screens.
But Dr Molitor said: “While acknowledging the challenges associated with psychological well-being on reality TV shows such as Big Brother, it is crucial to recognise the potential benefits.
“For viewers, reality TV serves as a source of entertainment and escapism, providing respite from the pressures of daily life.
“In a world often characterised by stress and uncertainty, shows like Big Brother offer a window into the realm of human behaviour, friendship and social development.”
READ MORE: First look inside the Big Brother Diary Room as viewers get a sneak peek
And she added: “Participation often leads to personal growth and heightened self-awareness for the contestants, as they are pushed beyond their comfort zones.”
A final benefit is “social experimentation”. She said: “Big Brother serves as a unique social experiment, offering insights into behaviour, interpersonal dynamics, and the resolution of conflicts.
“Placing individuals in an environment removed from the real world creates a viewing platform of behavioural challenges, showing how individuals navigate these unique social situations.”
This benefits the audience, too, she added. “These experiences provide viewers with a lens through which to witness the development of a sense of community and,
potentially, a mirror for self-reflection, encouraging them to address their own social barriers.”
But there are downsides…
Dr Molitor outlined a series of challenges housemates might face, including isolation.
“Contestants may grapple with isolation as they are cut off from the outside world, including phones and social media. This can be intensified by sharing space with unfamiliar individuals.”
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Surveillance is another challenge.
“As a hallmark of Big Brother, the incessant 24-hour surveillance can breed fear of judgment, both from contestants and the audience. It may foster anxiety as they wonder how their actions are presented through editing for TV.”
Finally, she highlighted “competition and conflict”. She said: “The competitive nature of reality TV programmes adds another layer of psychological complexity.”
As well as a series of mental health measures for contestants, new co-presenters AJ Odudu and Will Best, and regular narrator Marcus Bentley, will also get support.
ITV said: “All housemates will get an individual support plan, including sessions with the show’s mental health professionals prior to entering the House, throughout their time in the House and beyond.
“Housemates will be required to undergo respect and inclusion training to set out expectations around use of language and acceptable behaviour in the House.”
● Big Brother launch show, tonight at 9pm, on ITV.
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