Why Do All American TV Shows Feature Infidelity?
In the world of American television, infidelity scarcely feels as if it's an outlier but rather a time-honored tradition. From series like Billions to Game of Thrones, Bling Ring, and The Bachelor, the theme of cheating has spanned far and wide. This phenomenon sparks curiosity and a deeper dive into why infidelity is such a recurring and captivating theme in modern television. Let's explore the reasons behind this prevalent storyline.
1. The Spell of Drama
The primary reason for infidelity's prevalence in American TV shows is the undeniable allure of drama. In a medium so heavily dependent on capturing viewers' attention and sustaining engagement, infidelity plays a pivotal role. It serves as a catalyst for conflict, leading to verbal battles, emotional upheavals, and even physical altercations. Dramatic scenes can occur with little provocation, setting the stage for heightened tension and intrigue. As one famous Hollywood executive quipped, 'you inspire me to commit adultery'; infidelity, when done right, is a plot device that makes it hard for viewers to look away.
Furthermore, infidelity often acts as a lens through which audiences can experience and comprehend complex human emotions in a visceral manner. Audiences can vicariously live the turmoil of a betrayed partner, the justifiable anger of a cheater, and the subsequent drama that ensues. This emotional catharsis is precisely what draws viewers back, creating a rollercoaster of sensations that make one oh-so-willing to stick with the show through the messy aftermaths and confrontations, no matter how excruciating the scenes may be.
2. The "Forbidden Fruit" Syndrome
In psychology, the "forbidden fruit" syndrome often refers to situations where there is a tendency to gravitate towards things that are explicitly prohibited or out of bounds due to the sense of danger and excitement that comes with them. In the context of American TV, infidelity represents this exact idea - a situation that is taboo but harbors a certain appeal. Characters engage in behavior that defies societal norms and personal morals, thus providing a unique form of entertainment that is inherently transgressive.
Moreover, the allure of a "naughty side" is a powerful one. Characters, especially those who are otherwise civil and upstanding, undergoing such a taboo act can be thrilling and alluring. For audiences, these "naughty” episodes offer a form of wish-fulfillment where their own inhibitions are temporarily cast aside and replaced by the vicarious thrill of witnessing transgression. It is a type of rebellion against the status quo, making it an attractive and compelling storyline. Hence, the “naughty side” episodes are not just meant to stir up emotions but also to provide a release of sorts for both the characters and the viewers.
3. Audience Emotions and Justification
Another significant factor is how justified audiences feel in rooting for infidelity within these shows. There is a psychological process by which viewers can rationalize or downplay the immoral actions of the characters. It is akin to the concept of cognitive dissonance, where viewers might find ways to convince themselves that the cheaters deserve what they are getting, or that the new couple is sexier and more enjoyable to watch.
This sense of justification adds an additional layer of engagement to these storylines. Viewers, whether consciously or subconsciously, might find themselves cheering for the cheating partner because they believe the cheater was deserving of punishment. They may also speculate that the new co-stars are more attractive or dynamic, enhancing the viewing experience. This psychological projection and rationalization suggest that infidelity is not just about creating drama but also about fulfilling viewer fantasies and working through their own subconscious feelings of morality or justice.
Conclusion
Why do all American TV shows have infidelity as a theme at least for an episode? The answer lies in a combination of the allure of drama, the forbidden fruit syndrome, and the psychological justifications that audience members find in these storylines. These elements collectively make infidelity a compelling and enduring theme, ensuring that it remains a staple of television narratives for years to come.
Infidelity—or "cheating" as it is more commonly referred to—continues to be a powerful driver of engagement and storytelling in television. It taps into deep-seated human emotions and societal taboos, providing entertainment and fulfillment for viewers. Whether it's through dramatic confrontations, forbidden dalliances, or justified wish-fulfillment, the seductive nature of infidelity ensures it will remain a recurring feature in American TV.