Different reality show, same question: Why do they do it? Why they show the world their lives

It's probably a bad sign that I don't know a lot of people in Southern California's "most hip and stylish 18- to 20-something set." At least, not that I can think of at the moment. Nor is it a good idea, as I found out with some degree of embarrassment this week, to approach young women on the street and ask if they're over 18 and, if so, that I'd like to talk to them.

But I needed someone that age, because I wanted to find out what it is that would entice them to audition for a TV show that promises to expose their lives to the rest of us.

Yes, I know these shows have been in our midst for a few years now, and starting with "The O.C." in 2003, the networks have seemed to like Orange County's youth culture. Except for "The Real Housewives of Orange County," that is.

But you'd think enough would be enough.

Not even close.

For a new fall show, the Bravo network is looking for another round of youthful prospects who, according to a network ad, live in the fast lane, possibly attend college, are looking for a first apartment, are starting a new business or whatever.

The only catch: The network is partial to people living in the Newport Beach-Irvine and coastal areas.

And then there's this: Bravo wants the prospective thespians to "have an involved relationship with their parents," either because of outright financial help or the comfort zone knowledge that the kids can always come back home if necessary.

It took some doing, but I hooked up Thursday afternoon with Justin Azarioon, a cousin of a friend in the office. He grew up in Washington state but is now a Southern Californian with a lot of time spent in Orange County's cooler venues.

Best of all, he's 22.

You've got to remember, Justin says, that a lot of twentysomethings have spent their formative years watching MTV's reality series, especially the one featuring Laguna Beach teens.

"That set the pace," he says, "with kids [on the show] who were popular, had money, living the cool easy life. And you still see kids from that show in the tabloid magazines. So, other kids are thinking, 'Maybe I can get my name out there.' "

It's possible, Justin says, the wannabes think they have the coolest dad or mom around and would love to trot them out on TV.

"Or it could be the totally opposite side of the spectrum," he says, "where the kid is totally frustrated with his dysfunctional family and thinks that if they get on TV, his parents will see how big a fool they're making of themselves and maybe they'll change."