As I was watching one of my favorite shows, Riverdale, I realized how emotionally invested I was in something that ultimately does not mean anything. It is just a show and it is completely fictional. There are many other people who become so obsessed with tv shows that they create entire cultures surrounding the popular show. They grow obsessed and create fan clubs and little communities that revolve around the media. They create fan fiction, fan art, and so much more. This obsession is not healthy. We treat fictional shows like Riverdale as if they are a part of our reality. Essentially, it distracts us from the real world and makes people detached.
Popular shows like Riverdale also string people along as they take at least a year to release a new season. And to make matters worse, they always end each season with a huge cliff hanger, which makes all the fans remain interested in the show. Once they release a new season, they repeat this process until the people start to grow tired of the show.
I think the only reason I have not turned into a mindless fangirl is because I have grown more aware of how media manipulates us. After watching so many documentaries about the ulterior motives behind media, I am much more conscious of its deceptive nature. However, I am still affected by some of the tricks and manipulations. I am aware that it is all fake but I can't help but get emotionally invested in these mindless shows. I wish I could flip a switch and not be affected but I still fall into these traps and become obsessed. I allow myself to obsess over trashy tv shows because I look for distractions and excuses to escape from real life issues. I also make rationalizations whenever I watch too much tv. I'll tell myself that everyone else is doing it or I will only watch one more episode then I will be productive but these are only lies. Addictive shows like Riverdale create unhealthy habits that affect many people and ultimately create a negative impact.
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