Why do we care?

The question that one may ask while reading or viewing the tabloids on the recent scandal involving a famous athlete or coach is the same one that this post is titled after.  What is so interesting about the lives, or perhaps the seemingly hidden lives of those that we see running, jumping, and swimming on the biggest stages in their respective realms?

For those who study communication, it is common knowledge that social interaction is one of mankind's basic needs.  This is how we develop our own perception of self, especially when we are exposed to what the media and "insiders" of the game portray as perfect.  This is called framing.  When just a piece of an artifact is isolated and magnified to alter the image.  Framing can go both ways, and so can our reasoning for paying attention to the blunders of athletic wonders.

Individuals enjoy sifting through the many stories of the decisions and consequences that their favorite athletes.  People like seeing others mess up, it makes them laugh.  Another need is met as one may feel validated when a "perfect" athlete comes forward and confesses, or is caught in some sort of social or legal transgression.  "Well, if they are doing that then I shouldn't feel to bad about myself", the critic or fan may say.  Focusing on personal needs that are met through this framing process reveals why the media produces the stories that it does.  "Supply and demand", and the more the consumers consume, the more the producers produce.

For example, there were supposed death threats directed toward a college basketball referee after a game in the NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament.  A few conclusions that a hungry fan may draw is that perhaps they are not as crazy as those fans!  Another is a possible confirmation that referees are the spawn of Satan, and deserve every bad thing they get.  The list can go on, but when it comes down to it - it's Just a Game.