Published March 27, 2014
Dr. Christopher Mapp, assistant professor of communication and Director of Student
Publications at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, contributed a chapter to the
book, “Reality Television: Oddities of Culture.”
The book analyzes reality television shows that have shifted their focus from everyday
topics onto subjects that are strange, unfamiliar, and “out-there,” Mapp said.
“One of the reasons shows like ‘Here Comes Honey Boo Boo’ and ‘Duck Dynasty’ are so
popular is because they take the traditional reality show structure and turn it on
its head. These days, it seems like the weirder and wilder, the better.”
The book explores these non-traditional shows that illustrate odd, unique, or peculiar
aspects of our society, Mapp said.
Mapp’s chapter, “Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew: A Wicked Brew of Fame, Addiction,
and Cultural Narcissism,” explores the program and whether it accelerates the downfall
of the participants, advances Dr. Drew’s celebrity status, or a combination of both.
“[My chapter] also examines the more toxic tendencies of our narcissistic culture
and how it feeds into, and off of, reality TV. It seems we relish watching celebrities
self-destruct even as we strive to be more like them,” Mapp said.
“Reality Television: Oddities of Culture” was published by Lexington Books on Feb.
16, and is currently available for purchase.
