Evaluating the Palestinian Woman's Image in the Local Media from the University Female Students' Perspective in Gaza

Abstract

Descriptive approach via a questionnaire to evaluate the Palestinian woman's image in media at different levels in Gaza strip, Palestine. 530 female university students were drawn from three universities in Gaza strip involving the Islamic university, Al-Azhar university, and university of Palestine. The outcomes of this study show that women have two prominent traits in that media that is self-made and patient, and sacrificing. The other traits include weak and needy. In addition, at the political level, the media has demonstrated interests in the Palestinian media ladies, and shown their roles in covering the Palestinian political news. At the social level, the outcomes have proved that social media networks have contributed in shaping the mainstream supporting the Palestinian woman's social issues. Besides, at the cultural level, they have stated that customs and traditions hinder media from adopting courageous issues treating the Palestinian woman's political and social status quo. Furthermore, at the economic level, media has given an image about the working Palestinian woman's materialistic abuse. In conclusion, the media should not exaggerate in portraying the woman's image in the issues of violence. It is necessary to present a positive image about her and defend her freedom and rights. Moreover, it recommended to support her to be designated in governmental, ministerial and leadership positions, as well as, to cast light on exemplars for successful women in the field of reasoning and knowledge, and set a media plan based on justice and equality.