Personal characteristics of Islamic matrimonial website users in Saudi Arabia: An empirical study. (1st April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bajnaid, Ayman; Elareshi, Mokhtar
• Is Part Of: Journal of Arab & Muslim media research. Volume 11:Number 1(2018)
• Page Start: 83
• Page End: 101
• Publication Date: 2018-04-01
• Subjects: Mass media -- Periodicals; Mass media -- Arab countries -- Periodicals; Communication -- Arab countries -- Periodicals; Islam -- Periodicals; 302.23089927
• DOI: 10.1386/jammr.11.1.83_1
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1751-9411

Abstract

Engaging in friendships/romantic relationships with the opposite gender in Saudi Arabia is forbidden prior to marriage according to Islam. As a result, Saudis are increasingly turning to unconventional mediums to find a spouse. However, little research has been conducted regarding Saudi courtship (online dating). This study examines the cultural scripts of matrimonial websites, including the impressions users intended to convey when constructing their profiles and the characteristics they sought in potential spouses. A sample of 111 matrimonial personal profiles was content-analysed based on hyper-personal and sexual-strategy theories. Similarities were found between Saudi and western users' approach to searching for a potential mate on such websites, and social and religious norms were found to affect users' behaviours and decisions when using such websites. In-depth description of the cultural scripts of Islamic matrimonial websites is provided. Findings are discussed in relation to computer-mediated communication (CMC), which focuses on whether online profile settings allow for the provision of rich information to users about other users (of the opposite sex).