The relationship of the Saudi public with the media and its role in shaping their perceptions and attitudes towards the issue of national identity

Abstract

This paper sought to investigate the Saudi public’s relationship with the media and its role in shaping their perceptions and attitudes towards the issue of national identity. It aimed to determine the effectiveness of media efforts on the level of awareness and positive attitude with regard to national identity. The study analyzed the media messages aimed at strengthening national identity and shaping awareness among citizens in the service of development and the stability of the nation. The researcher used a descriptive approach as a method of research for this purpose. The findings of the study indicated that Saudis followed news media closely and that the media addressed the issue of national identity moderately. The methods used by the media to cover the issue of national identity were traditional in approach. The study concluded that the media did not have influence in their coverage of the issue. However, they affected feelings toward the state and the homeland to a high degree. The study recommended that media artifacts, which include a set of values and foundations, should be produced to serve the identity of the public.