Reality TV (n): television programs in which real people are continuously filmed, designed to be entertaining rather than informative.

The phenomenon that is reality TV has been around for years. In fact, MTV's "The Real World" has been around for over 20 years and is known as the first reality TV show. Reality TV has something for everyone. Whether you just want to sit down once a week and watch "The Bachelor" or want more of a commitment like "Big Brother." You can have as much or as little information as you want.

Why do so many people love these shows? Because you can relate to and feel connected to the characters. You form virtual bonds with people you've never met, yet you become to like and dislike them for different reasons. There are people that come back time and time again because they are loved by America on many different shows, and then there are those that get forgotten as soon as they are voted off, or lose a challenge.

I have grown up watching reality TV shows. It's basically a way of life in my family. My dad checks regularly to see what new shows are starting that need to be tried out. My family has probably attempted to watch 80 percent of the reality shows that have ever been on TV. While I will admit I have to watch "So You Think You Can Dance," "The Bachelor/Bachelorette," and "The Real World" weekly, some people might just take this break from our own realities a little too far.

For example, paying a fee to watch live feeds of contestants 24/7. While I think it's great that "Big Brother" has the transparency to allow it's viewers to know what's going on at all times; that doesn't mean that you HAVE to watch it at all times. Staying up until 3 A.M. just to see who wins the veto competition or constantly yelling at a computer screen because the person you didn't want on the block was put up is just a little much for my taste. While I think everyone should enjoy whatever makes you happy, it's shouldn't stress you out on a daily basis.

Everybody can find their niche in the reality TV market. There's just something about the raw emotion of watching people that have chosen to be filmed and watched through their most vulnerable and triumphant moments. It can make your week by seeing your favorite person persevere, or your least favorite person fall off during a competition.

But, whatever type of reality TV you like, it brings people together. Just look at all of the online forums and chat rooms you can join. It shows you people that can come together from all walks of life to enjoy the one thing they all have in common. It amazes me a little how close and nonjudgemental these people can be because of their common ground.

So the next time you have a stressful day, sit down with a glass of wine and your favorite snack, and enjoy your favorite reality away from your own reality.