TV Viewing Motivations Of Arab American Households In The US: An Empirical Perspective

Abstract

The study surveyed a sample of 149 adult Arab immigrants in Detroit (MI) and Los Angeles (CA). The findings indicate that the five primary television viewing motivations, in order of importance for these Arab American respondents were: entertainment, relaxation, social Interaction, habit and information. The study however showed that the primary motive for watching Arabic TV was to keep informed about what is happening in the country of origin and around the world. The place of birth whether in the US or in the country of origin, and the length of time in the U. S. appeared to have an impact on the TV viewing habits of Arab Americans. The implications of the findings are also presented.