Reality TV is an urban genre of Television Programming. The principal idea is that the show produces a continuously filmed, unedited series that is entertaining and informative. Among the first reality shows ever to be aired was Number 28, a Dutch Series. Two strangers would meet and hold a conversation. The producers of the show record the entire encounter edit it to remove inconsistencies and other noises that may have been captured in filming the series. Regardless of all the controversy, Reality TV productions insist that their productions are unscripted. Since then a number of successive reality TV series based on popular social and cultural issues have come up. These productions in their increasing number have had a significant impact on popular American culture. 

Research shows that Reality TV series have a real and immediate impact on social trends and popular culture. Young girls have emulated the people they see through their hair color, dietary and health practices and even exercise. While some of the practices seem safe and positive, in some cases teenage girls stop eating to try and slim their bodies. Male teenagers might begin indulging in alcohol and substance abuse. 

From a psychological point of view, the influence of series like Real House Wives of Atlanta and Shark Tank influence the fashion and business cultures of urban centers. A specific clothing line may have an exclusive right to its productions being worn by one character and the entire line becomes a fashion trend. As middle-aged persons and early retirees watch Shark Tank or Hell’s Kitchen they may stumble upon interesting business practices and redirect these practices at their workplaces. Reality TV often seeks to depict some version of an existing reality, a mirror into a real life experience. Its influence on urban and popular culture remains one of the strongest.