Why do people who can’t sing, laugh or tell a joke feel the need to audition for reality TV shows that require them to do so?

In their own mind do they think they have talent? Did their parents feed them false information when they were growing up?

I’m all for encouraging your children, but once they’re adults it’s time to be honest (Mom and Dad, I hope you’re not reading this because I want you to continue telling me how wonderful I am at everything I do).

Many of the preview tapes I receive from various networks contain audition clips. Often, these auditions are the first episode that we see when a show airs.

Take for example this season of NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.”

If you stop reading here, let me just tell you the show looks like it’s going to be a good one with lots of competition and some funny guys and gals to entertain us all. Tune in to NBC at 8 p.m. Thursday, May 30, to catch the first episode and have a good laugh.

Unfortunately, watching the audition process wasn’t as comical, and I’m glad I didn’t have to sit through all of the thousands and thousands of people who tried out.

We’re all able to pull off telling a joke or two at some point, but some people just aren’t funny. At least they’re not funny enough to get up onstage and entertain an audience.

While I applaud their courage and willingness to make themselves look like fools while chasing a dream, there’s a point where you need to stop, step back, and listen to yourself on a tape recorder or watch yourself on video.

If you can’t stand watching or hearing yourself, it’s likely no one else wants to, either.

Going back to last week’s column on MTV’s “Tiara Girls,” I received a message from a reader that said I might want to check out “My Super Sweet 16,” also on MTV.

I did, and I’m sorry. The show features spoiled teenagers who demand over-the-top birthdays and only the best of the best for presents and get what they want.

If you’re already getting jewels, high-tech electronic gadgets and sports cars at 16, what’s left to look forward to?

I was always taught that you work for what you get, not whine for it and have it magically appear wrapped in fancy paper and a bow.