Prank shows have secured a steady place in the entertainment programming lineup during Ramadan over the years, with audiences eagerly awaiting them from season to season, seeking laughter and a release from the pressures of daily life.
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However, these programs have recently been criticized for including inappropriate behaviors that are alarming to educators, psychologists, and sociologists, particularly regarding their negative effects on the mental health of children and adolescents.
In this regard, Dr. Jamal Farouiz, an Egyptian psychiatrist and neurologist, spoke exclusively to "24," stating that prank shows in recent years have included unacceptable behaviors such as bullying, humiliation, and disrespect towards guests under the guise of "pranks."
Abuse and Mockery
Dr. Farouiz notes that the impact of these shows on children is direct, especially since they are filmed, edited, and followed by apologies and agreements, making it clear that no real harm occurs between the host and the guest. The conflict ends once the episode concludes, unlike what would happen in real life.
He also points out that, recently, prank shows have prioritized material content over the well-being of the audience and their mental health, or the respect of societal traditions. The creators of these shows often escalate the levels of abuse toward guests to ensure widespread viral attention on social media platforms, without regard for ethical or societal standards.
The psychiatrist further explains that children, who are in a phase of imitation, will replicate what they see, attempting to apply it to their friends and peers in school and the street, leading to significant problems between children and their families and threatening social cohesion.
Bullying
In addition to the bullying and humiliation depicted in these shows, they also contribute to the destruction of cultural norms within society, resembling a systematic campaign that negatively impacts the community. This necessitates stricter monitoring and regulations of such shows.
Dr. Farouiz compares prank shows in Egypt and the Arab world with their counterparts in Europe and the United States, noting that while these shows in Western countries aim to entertain, they do so without insulting or harming others, as they follow the ethical standards of their societies.
It is worth mentioning that the Ramadan season features a variety of prank shows, with prominent examples such as "Ramez Elon Masr" hosted by Egyptian comedian Ramez Galal and "Broadcast" hosted by Hassan Asiri. These shows trap guests in various pranks, which often involve mockery.
