Today’s public sphere has a heavy focus on the behaviour of the youth population. As well as from parents and educators, discussion on binge drinking and disorderly behaviour has branched into political talks even resulting in changes to legislation. A topic regularly emerging in mediated public spheres on this issue is the influence of popular reality TV shows such as Jersey Shore. The first of now many, Jersey Shore blew binge drinking into the public sphere with over 15.9 million people watching the season one finale.
Used as a pinup for ‘what not to do’ in many mediated public spheres, the actions of the cast members in Jersey Shore support claims that youth binge drinking has a negative effect on both society and the individuals themselves. With many youths taking part in these activities, just not on national television, the issue sparks debate from three main angles.
- Parents arguing the show will influence their children and put them in danger
- Youths indicating the show presents a false image of what their culture is
- Blaming the show for creating a culture of violence, promiscuity and alcoholism
Now in it’s 6th season, many of the cast members are in their 30s, some even with children. This takes the debate further as to whether this type of environment is healthy for a new family. The overwhelming answer being no, another way the show can be used as a weapon against mediated debated on youth culture.
By taking a group of 20 something year olds, giving them free alcohol and free rein to do what they like and putting it on MTV, the producers obviously knew the results would spark debate. The fact that Jersey Shore is so often the catalyst for debate in the public sphere is what makes it so popular, and profitable.
References
Binge-drinking law call. 2014. Binge-drinking law call. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.theage.com.au/national/bingedrinking-law-call-20101107-17iyb.html. [Accessed 6 April 2014].
‘Jersey Shore’ ratings go nuclear: Most-watched MTV series telecast ever! | Inside TV | EW.com. 2014. ‘Jersey Shore’ ratings go nuclear: Most-watched MTV series telecast ever! | Inside TV | EW.com. [ONLINE] Available at: http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/01/07/jersey-shore-ratings-record/. [Accessed 6 April 2014].
McKee, Alan. The Public Sphere: An Introduction , Cambridge University Press: Cambridge 2005, pp. 1-31.
What is binge drinking? Get the facts. DrinkWise. 2014. What is binge drinking? Get the facts. DrinkWise. [ONLINE] Available at: http://www.drinkwise.org.au/you-alcohol/alcohol-facts/binge-drinking/. [Accessed 6 April 2014].
First Year Again. 
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