BY PAM RUTLEDGE, PHD Doctoral faculty, Media Psychology APRIL 3, 2021 Reality shows thrive on drama created by those who manipulate and deceive. SUMMARY Dark Triad personality traits including entitlement, deception, lack of empathy, and manipulation are common among reality TV characters. Dark Triad traits are also associated with con artists. On realiy shows, manipulation and self-interest attract viewers because conflict activates emotion and drama. Brands should be cautious about who they choose to represent them. Dark Triad traits may increase ratings, but they can damage a brand's image. Jen Shah of the Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, isn’t the [...]

BY PAM RUTLEDGE, PHD Doctoral faculty, Media Psychology March 30, 2021 What Goes Up, Can Come Crashing Down. Many successful people will tell you that fame is illusory at best.  That doesn’t make wealth, privilege and adoration look less fun from the outside. Social media fame is particularly alluring when we hear stories of ‘overnight’ success and the economics of monetizing millions of followers based on personality, chutzpah, and the ability to attract attention are the critical talents, not years of studying Method Acting or busking on street corners.  Fame can come quickly as memes spread and followers, like moths to a flame, go with what [...]