Enjoying a glass of champagne on a romantic date doesn’t seem like a problem.
But dating show Bachelor in Paradise has been slammed for its depiction of alcohol, with a recent study claiming the first season from 2018 sent the ‘wrong message’ to young viewers.
A research team at the University of Adelaide, headed by Dr Jacqueline Bowden, studied how many times alcohol appeared during the series.
Bottoms up? Bachelor in Paradise has been slammed for its depiction of alcohol, with a recent study claiming the first season from 2018 sent the ‘wrong message’ to young viewers. Pictured: the cast of Bachelor in Paradise season two
The team divided the episodes into one-minute segments and recorded the number of times that alcohol was present.
‘Alcohol was shown or referenced in more than 70 per cent of the one-minute intervals across each of the show’s 16 episodes,’ Dr Bowden told Perth Now.
Taking into consideration the series’ popularity among six- to 24-year-olds, Dr Bowden said Paradise was sending the ‘wrong message’ to these viewers.
On screen: A research team at the University of Adelaide, headed by Dr Jacqueline Bowden, studied how many times alcohol appeared during the first series. ‘Alcohol was shown or referenced in more than 70 per cent of the one-minute intervals across each of the show’s 16 episodes,’ Dr Bowden said. Pictured: Brooke Blurton from Bachelor in Paradise season two
‘We weren’t shocked that reality shows depict drinking, but the fact it was so widespread in this program is very concerning and sends the wrong message to young people and the community about drinking,’ she said.
Dr Bowden went on to explain that alcohol is a ‘leading cause of death and disability’ among 15- to 24-year-olds in Australia.
She added that the depiction of alcohol consumption could have a negative influence on young people’s drinking habits.
Bad habits: Dr Bowden told Perth Now said that the depiction of alcohol use in the show could have a negative influence on young people’s drinking habits. Pictured: Bachelor in Paradise season two stars Rachael Gouvignon and Richie Strahan
‘Higher exposure to traditional forms of alcohol marketing among young people is associated with increased alcohol uptake, increased consumption and increased binging and hazardous drinking levels,’ she said.
‘This is also likely to be the case for reality TV shows.’
Dr Bowden has called for stricter government regulations regarding the depiction of alcohol use in TV programs and advertising.
New season: The third season of Bachelor in Paradise is set to premiere on Wednesday. Pictured: Bachelor in Paradise season three stars Ciarran Stott (left) and Timm Hanly (right)
The third season of Bachelor in Paradise is set to premiere on Wednesday.
While the depiction of alcohol use in season three is unknown, several recent trailers for the show include participants drinking cocktails.
In response to Dr Bowden’s research, a Channel 10 spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia: ‘Responsible Service of Alcohol guidelines are observed at all times during filming of Bachelor In Paradise and alcohol consumption is closely monitored by staff.’
Cheers? While the depiction of alcohol use in season three is unknown, several recent trailers for the show include participants drinking cocktails. Pictured: Ciarran and Abbie Chatfield
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