This week I’ve been watching Married at First Sight (MAFS) – Australia 2023 version, as it’s started playing on TV here in my country. Personally, I’m hooked. I’ve watched MAFS for many years and I’ve always found it to be enlightening and entertaining – and I guess that’s the point. But how real is it?
“Married at First Sight” (in case you haven’t seen it) is a reality TV show where individuals agree to participate in an arranged marriage with a stranger, selected for them by a team of relationship experts. The show has been popular with audiences and has inspired many spin-off series in different countries. There are versions for the USA, the UK, and Australia for a start. Each is similar but different.
As with many reality TV shows, “Married at First Sight” can be entertaining to watch, but it is not necessarily representative of real-life relationships. The show is obviously heavily edited and produced to maximize drama and conflict, and the participants are selected for their willingness to be on television, which may not reflect the broader population. That’s not to say that the people involved are not real, or that they don’t have real feelings and emotions. They do. But their portrayals may not be.
In terms of the success of the marriages on the show, the outcomes vary. Some couples have remained together and continue to be happily married, while others have gone through the process of getting a divorce. It’s important to remember that the marriages on the show are arranged and the participants are often under a great deal of pressure and scrutiny, which can be stressful and impact the success of the relationship. So, while “Married at First Sight” can be an interesting show to watch, it should not be considered a representation of real-life relationships or a model for building a successful marriage. If you are looking for guidance on relationships and marriage, it may be more helpful to consult with a licensed therapist or seek advice from trusted friends and family members. Or visit us here at Dating Dave!