It's your right to be disturbed by that type of behavior, but it doesn't make it abnormal or "sick." I choose to avoid watching that kind of thing, for the most part, but American Idol would have to go pretty far for me to consider them exploitative. For instance:

Having a "special" show where they audition only "special" applicants, as in, people with microcephaly, down's syndrom, etc., chosen for how funny-looking or blatantly mentally retarded they are. Use basically the same reaction shots (as if they can't believe what they're watching and listening to), and then have them ruthlessly make fun of their deformities in the post-audition interview.

THAT is exploitation. However, I still wouldn't call people "sick" for watching it. That kind of curiosity is normal.

In any case, I'm skeptical of "exploitation" claims under some circumstances. The people in traveling freak shows, back when those were popular, made a good living and were generally treated okay, while if they had tried to lead a "normal" life, they may not have been so fortunate.