Television on Identity
MAHIMA KEDLAYA | JAN. 19, 2022 | ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Television’s transportive abilities have granted millions of Grey’s Anatomy fans M.D.s, while at the same time, viewers of Criminal Minds receive their degrees in criminology. From feeling like a New York socialite to living in the small town of Stars Hollow, television can be considered an asylum for adventurous minds, a relief from daily stresses, and a significant influence on identity.
“It is an easy outlet for me to view fragments of other people’s lives. I find comfort in their experiences and emotions,” said senior Akila Jayaraman. “It is bizarre how many times I will see and experience things in my own life and relate it to a TV character or scenario.”
Television can be extremely impactful on one’s perspective, preferences, and social interactions. Watching, learning from, and growing with characters has significant implications on viewers, whether it be mimicking certain dialogues or outfits to demonstrating significant emotional or physical responses.
“When we witness a character experience pain, happiness, loss, or any emotion, our brain recognizes that, and we immediately start feeling that same pain as if it was real," said Dr. Danielle Forshee, a doctor of psychology and licensed clinical social worker, in an interview with Elite Daily, published in 2018.
The programs people watch also tend to guide their interests and social conduct, thus influencing their personality. For example, while viewing a show heavily focused on cooking, one could be more inclined to replicate or attempt certain dishes. Similarly, when binging a sitcom, one might incorporate such verbal or physical humor in daily interactions.
“Watching television shows like Friends significantly affected my manner of speaking,” said senior Medha Rathore. “Chandler Bing’s constant sarcasm and witty remarks, for example, revolutionized my perspective on comedy.”
Characters such as Chandler give viewers a sense of connection or relief on screen. TV personas are uniquely able to portray human experiences on an elevated level, allowing watchers to feel represented or connected to those figures.
“Deep emotions can be evoked while viewing the stories that the characters experience. These connections conjure many different types of emotions,” said Dr. Lisa Bratemen, a psychotherapist and relationship specialist, during a 2018 conference with Elite Daily. “Living vicariously through the characters’ experiences can offer insight into themselves.”
Seeing television personas progress, exploring significant elements of their identity, can aid those experiencing similar changes. Some may attain philosophical enlightenment or academic fulfillment, while others may find comfort in learning more about their sexuality or gender identity.
Through its characters that provide entertainment, awareness, and security and its unceasing vitality in society, television has proven to have a significant impact on viewers’ behavior, interests, and self-understanding. While shows may be limited to a screen, their scope of influence reaches far beyond.