All my life, I’ve been a “why?” person. Understanding how people work and what lies beneath the veneer of the mask one wears captivates me. In order to really understand someone’s view of the world and how they interact with the social world, you have to unpack a person’s environment, experiences, and familial dynamics.
All of these things create a framework for how things work in a person’s mind, and one will refer back to that structured blueprint throughout their life journey. This deep appreciation for people’s journey led me to, surprisingly, watch reality TV.
Now, be honest, we can all admit that we’ve fallen into a reality TV rabbit hole at some point in our lives. I wrote this post for people who thrive on the drama and chaos of reality TV yet love diving into the inner workings of people and society. So, here are the best reality TV shows for sociology lovers without losing the drama.
5. Love is Blind
Over the past two years, dating shows have skyrocketed in popularity, and few have made as big a splash as Love Is Blind. More than just a show, it’s a full-blown “social experiment” where singles search for love and, ultimately, marriage.
The twist? Contestants are placed in separate pods, unable to see each other, and can only connect through conversation. The goal is to find out whether genuine love can blossom without physical attraction and, if it does, to walk down the aisle.
What makes Love Is Blind so captivating is watching people from completely different walks of life form deep connections based solely on words. Along the way, the series delivers no shortage of drama and intensity as these couples struggle to strengthen their bond while navigating their different lifestyles. This show began airing in 2020, and it’s still going strong today. A must-watch for sure!
Find where to watch Love is Blind here
4. Black Ink Crew
I’m still in the early seasons of Black Ink Crew, but so far, it’s one of the rawest reality TV shows I’ve seen. Set in New York, the series follows a Black-owned tattoo studio and the chaotic lives of the people who work there.
Black Ink Crew offers an authentic, in-depth look into the lives of black tattoo artists in New York — the struggles they face, and how they push through them. The show doesn’t shy away from tough conversations, tackling hard topics head-on.
At the same time, it creates space to connect with the cast on a deeper, personal level. As a Black woman, I felt especially connected to their stories; many of their experiences echoed things I’ve witnessed throughout my own life. With the nostalgia of the 2010s, this show, which aired in 2012, almost feels like traveling back to the age of wedges and fringe boots.
With plenty of ferocious arguments, steamy moments, and a roster of unforgettable personalities, Black Ink Crew is a must-watch to add to your list this fall.
Find where to watch Black Ink Crew here
3. Vanderpump Rules
A staple in the reality TV world, Vanderpump Rules is truly in a league of its own. With lore so deep you couldn’t dream it up, the show follows a tight-knit (and often turbulent) group of friends working at the iconic West Hollywood restaurant SUR, partially owned by Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Lisa Vanderpump.
As a born-and-raised Southern girl, I find it endlessly fascinating to watch people from a completely different part of the country, not just their personalities, but how the social norms and dynamics of their environment shape the way they interact. The contrast between my own experiences and theirs makes the drama even juicier to watch.
Over the years, Vanderpump Rules has delivered everything from cheating scandals and messy friendship betrayals to season after season of unapologetic narcissism. It’s part sociology study, part chaotic soap opera and for anyone who loves diving into human behavior or just wants a front-row seat to delicious drama, this show is a must-watch.
Find where to watch Vanderpump Rules here
2. The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills
Everything isn’t all diamonds and pearls in the world of these Beverly Hills housewives.
The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills offers the viewers a glimpse into the lives of these incredibly affluent women. Starring women like Kyle Richards, Lisa Vanderpump, and even Gigi Hadid’s mother, Yolanda Hadid, this series is a must-watch if you’re fascinated by unique social interactions and the dynamics that shape them.
The most intriguing part is the contrast between the women’s luxurious lifestyles and the tragedies in their lives. It’s fascinating to see how people with exorbitant wealth can be completely out of touch with reality and the struggles society faces. The series proves that money doesn’t shield you from life’s harsh realities, even in a million-dollar mansion, you’re not exempt from the challenges everyday people endure.
Find where to watch The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills here
1. Couples Therapy
Couples Therapy is a documentary-style series that peels back the curtain on the struggles real-life couples across America face, following their emotional journey to reconnect with one another. At the heart of the show is psychoanalyst Dr. Orna Guralnik, whose calm, compassionate approach gently breaks down emotional walls and guides couples toward the root of their issues.
What draws me in most is watching people from all walks of life find their way back to each other. Seeing how love can be diverse, complicated, messy, yet still beautiful and almost otherworldly. It’s fascinating to witness how each person’s worldview is shaped by their unique experiences, and how those perspectives follow them into their relationships. Relationships require more than just your own lens; they demand understanding and exploring the lens of your partner as well.
The series challenges couples to dig deep into their pasts, uncovering how childhood experiences and long-buried wounds have influenced the challenges they now face in marriage. Couples Therapy is a must-watch for anyone interested in psychology, sociology, or simply the complexities of human connection. It was Insightful, emotional, and deeply moving to me as a viewer. s led them to the problems they are having in their marriages. It’s a great watch for anyone interested in Psychology and Sociology.
find where to watch Couples Therapy Here
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