 Viewers often perceive RTV as being “real” or “authentic” on some level, certainly more real than scripted drama.  The participants on RTV shows are often “people like me,” thus rendering their experiences more relevant to the viewer, who can identify with everyday people much more closely than characters played by actors in a drama. Miracle Workers Executive Producer Darryl Frank.  Both of these factors perceived reality and a heightened sense of connection or identification with show participants are known to increase the likelihood that viewers’ knowledge, attitudes, values and behavior will be influenced by exposure to the shows.  These issues can be:  Sexuality  Drugs/alcohol  Weight  Looks  Etc.