Is Romance on TV Ruining My Chances for a Relationship?
Psychology Today
by Jeannette K Correa Ph.D.March 2, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Watching romantic TV shows like *Bridgerton* can influence our expectations about love and relationships, often skewing them toward unrealistic ideals. The article highlights how these portrayals focus heavily on the "spark" of attraction and initial excitement, while neglecting the deeper, more sustaining aspects of long-term connections. This imbalance can lead viewers to overemphasize the importance of the early stages of romance, potentially overlooking the hard work and commitment required to build and maintain healthy relationships in real life.
The article draws attention to how media often romanticizes fleeting moments of connection, like stolen glances or intense chemistry, without showing what happens next. This narrow focus leaves audiences with an incomplete understanding of love, which is far more complex and multifaceted than the passionate beginnings typically depicted on screen. For example, *Bridgerton*’s portrayal of relationships often prioritizes the thrill of the chase over the day-to-day effort that keeps love alive, leaving viewers without a roadmap for how to sustain intimacy beyond the initial "spark."
According to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), love is not just about fleeting feelings or exciting moments—it’s about mutual support, trust, and shared growth. Real relationships thrive on communication, vulnerability, and consistent effort from both partners. The article emphasizes that while the initial attraction may feel like love, it’s actually just one small part of a much larger picture. To build lasting connections, individuals need to focus on nurturing trust, fulfilling promises, and addressing their own needs and desires openly.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 3/2/2026