Is She Really Going Out with Him?
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that this series about sexist, self-absorbed men and the women who date them is based on the popular-but-crude Web site "Hot Chicks with Douchebags." It's played for humor, but that doesn't make it any less problematic. Expect lots of sexist references and some strong innuendo, including comments about women's body parts and conversations about sexual behavior. There's also plenty of strong language (though the worst is bleeped) and drinking, as well as some smoking.
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What's the Story?
IS SHE REALLY GOING OUT WITH HIM? takes a comic look at some of America's most self-absorbed men and the women who date them. Each episode follows a guy with a super-sized ego as he stares at himself in the mirror, works on his hair and tan, flirts with a variety of women, and boasts about his sexual prowess. While he reminds himself and his friends how wonderful he is, his girlfriend uses the opportunity to re-evaluate the relationship. With the help of her best friend's common sense and a little self-examination, the long-suffering girlfriend must choose whether she'll stay with him or move on.
Is It Any Good?
The series, which was inspired by the Web site Hot Chicks with Douchebags, pokes fun at men who believe that their self-proclaimed good looks and unique sense of style give them a license to disrespect the women they're dating. But while the show does present the men's behavior as negative, the women excuse a lot of it, and some even profess satisfaction with the guys' alpha male-inspired antics. Worse, some of the women seem incapable of standing up to their chauvinistic partner until they're publicly humiliated.
The series isn't designed to provide any sort of introspection about relationships or self-esteem issues, and it does have a few mildly funny moments. But the reality is that it's using sexism as a form of entertainment. While the series criticizes the men's chauvinistic behavior, it turns around and frequently uses derogatory terms like "douchebags," "tools," and "chicks." Meanwhile, while the men are pulling off their shirts and showing off their muscles, the women are often shown in skimpy outfits, with the camera lingering on their cleavage and bottoms. On the whole, this show is a silly (and sexist) viewing experience.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about sexism and the media. Do you think the media perpetuates sexist thinking/behavior, or does it simply reflect existing social values? Families can also discuss dating and self-esteem. Should you ever date someone who disrespects you? What kinds of behavior should women (or men) never tolerate from their partners?
TV Details
- Premiere date: June 8, 2009
- Cast: Ron Shimshilashvili
- Network: MTV
- Genre: Reality TV
- TV rating: TV-14
- Last updated: February 24, 2022
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