It is the second year in a row that I keep my girlfriend company while she watches Temptation Island and then, invariably, I also end up getting hooked on the programme, now in its twelfth edition.
For those unfamiliar with it, the way it works is simple: several couples test their relationship by living separately on an island for a certain period of time and coming into contact with other men and women whose job it is to lead them into temptation.
Each contestant is periodically updated on their partner's behaviour via videos. Based on what they see, they can request a confrontation with their boyfriend or girlfriend and decide whether to leave the programme alone or as a couple.
Real country, real relationships
Maybe it's the glossy location, the boorish and brash contestants or the exaggerated reactions, but it's all so trashy that it's addictive. It makes me smile because it is like looking through a keyhole into a world far removed from my own, made up of manipulation, repeated cheatings and possessive relationships.
Thinking about it, however, the Channel 5 reality show does not represent my experience or that of my friends, but is a mirror of that of many other people. Relationships in which gender roles are often stereotyped: women looked down upon and jealousy as the only sign of being in love for men.
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Spectacilising toxicity
The very format of the programme (Maria De Filippi's idea for a change) emphasises drama and conflict, often exacerbating the excesses of anger and lack of trust. While positive examples are not equally emphasised. This is a risky approach without proper context because it could lead some viewers, especially younger ones, to see problematic behaviour as common or inevitable in relationships.
This edition has already triggered a lot of criticism for behaviour and statements of some contestants that are too over the top or even toxic. From the boyfriend who has no problem claiming repeated cheating on his partner - because he cannot do otherwise - to the one who follows his girlfriend to work to see if she is too familiar with the clients.
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A missed opportunity so far
I understand the opinion of those who think that such examples should not be shown in prime time, but, turning the perspective upside down, in my humble opinion the programme's showcase could instead be used for educational purposes to prevent many boys and girls from becoming entangled in such potentially dangerous relationships. However, a different approach would be needed, one that does not sacrifice everything on the altar of spectacle by problematising more of what is said and done on air.
One could, for example, include psychologists, couples therapists and relationship counsellors in the programme to analyse what is happening between the participants. Experts could help the production identify and condemn toxic behaviour when it occurs and at the same time promote examples of healthy relationships within the programme. The contestants, to truly grow, should instead benefit from coaching sessions and emotional support while they are in the game.
Without all this, however, Temptation Island is unfortunately still a missed opportunity for a real journey into our feelings.
Illustration by Gloria Dozio - Acrimònia Studios
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