The American Psychological Pattern and Reality Television
             In this era of America's infatuation with reality television, one show seems to prevail in keeping millions glued to their TV's week after week to scrutinize the typical, everyday people who are thrown into an extraordinary situation with the hopes of winning a million dollars. The contestants on Survivor are selected from thousands of applicants to be "stranded" in a desolate area to compete for prizes, to vie for the coveted immunity status and to scheme against others to be the last one standing. This show, like many other reality shows, adhere to many of Robert B. Ray's theories of the psychological patterns discussed in his essay "The Thematic Paradigm" such as the values and characteristics associated with the outlaw hero and official hero to the collective traits of the two.
             With the motto "Outwit, outlast, and outplay" as their mantra, contestants are unleashed on the deserted island in a game of survival. Not only must they survive on the minimal necessities provided for them, the must also survive the elements and the sabotage of others. The contestants come from all walks of life and represent the portrayal of Ray's official hero; teachers, lawyers, housewives, counselors, military veterans. Even though they are seen as official heroes at the beginning, based solely on their record of the everyday world, the line becomes very vague between outlaw and official with some contestants as other strive to hold onto their moral values. As the
             game progresses, many participators revert to values that Ray distinguishes with the outlaw hero as well as the official hero. We see adolescent behavior of laziness and whining by some and others reflect good judgment and strong work ethics. We also observe the outlaws attitudes on their newfound society to be cynical. They form alliances with people whom they think will benefit them in the long run but are usually s...