EMERGING SOCIO-CULTURAL IDENTITIES IN SAUDI ARABIA: A TRIANGULATED CORPUS-BASED CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS

Abstract

This dissertation presents a comprehensive exploration of the intricate relationship between language and identity in Saudi Arabia, with a specific focus on the analysis of emerging and salient sociolinguistic identities as evidenced by data collected from social media sources. Uti- lizing methodological triangulation, which involves creating a corpus and employing corpus linguistics tools, this study systematically collects and analyzes social media data. Specifically, it focuses on hashtag and user-generated content that encapsulates unique identities. The central aim of this research is to advance the comprehension of sub-cultural identity variations within Saudi Arabia and to elucidate the processes by which these identities are shaped through language use on social media platforms. This study makes a significant con- tribution to the field of sociolinguistics, particularly within the relatively constrained sphere of language and identity investigations in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, it provides valuable insights into the evolving Saudi Arabian identity in the context of globalization and modernization, as mirrored in language practices observable on social media platforms. Throughout the course of this dissertation, diverse dimensions of identity have been thor- oughly examined, spotlighting how language utilization on Twitter functions as a portal into the formulation and expression of identities within the Saudi context. The prominence of pro- fessional identity has emerged as a dominant theme, serving as a testament to how individuals present their professional personas within the digital realm. Additionally, this research delves

into the intricate interplay between language and identity expression, accentuating the pivotal role of linguistic choices in shaping online identities. The distribution of age groups among users has also yielded valuable insights, shedding light on generational dynamics that influ- ence patterns of engagement. Furthermore, the evolving role of Twitter within Saudi Arabia underscores its burgeoning significance as a platform for both social interaction and the dis- semination of information. The methodological framework employed in this research harmoniously integrates both quantitative and qualitative methods, revealing the synergistic nature of these approaches within the context of identity research. By adopting a critical stance in the discourse anal- ysis, this study has unveiled deeper insights into the mechanisms through which identities are constructed and negotiated. In summation, this dissertation offers a comprehensive investigation into the relationship between language and identity in Saudi Arabia, providing invaluable insights into the evolving sociolinguistic landscape of the nation in the context of globalization and modernization.