| This qualitative study explored the impact that television talk shows have on patients and therapy. Exploratory in-depth interviews were conducted with 9 therapists in the New York area that had one or more patients discuss something viewed on a talk show. The therapists' response to patients discussing talk shows and their attitudes were also explored. Themes that emerged include: use of talk shows as a self help activity, uses in therapy, changes in patients, patient therapist relationship, and TV vs. therapist message. The effects of talk shows were found to be mostly positive from the described experiences of the patients including: talk shows' ability to educate, raise issues, give hope and inspiration, provide role models, and support therapy. Therapists voiced concerns about negative effects including talk shows' tendency to present incomplete information and give false impressions about the process of change. Clinical, research and social policy implications are also discussed. |
