The Effects of Television in Rural Tunisia

The consequences of TV diffusion on the knowledge, opinions, & social behavior of traditional populations in Ru Tunisia were investigated in a 3-stage field study. Approximately 100 men, women, & youth (under age 15) were interviewed in each of 3 villages (1 experimental & 2 control): in 1982, before electrification & the introduction of TV; in 1983, shortly after electrification; & in 1985. Approximately 60% of Rs were available for reinterview; new Rs were substituted for the remainder. Since 66% of Rs were illiterate, the 45-minute interviews used a 64-item questionnaire in simple language, & pictures. Panel analysis of the findings showed that TV created a spiritual & social gap out of existing economic differences between TV viewers & nonviewers. TV viewers were regarded by others as better informed, & this was true on some subjects, but political knowledge was improved only insignificantly. Religious & social norms remained stable, but TV influenced the introduction of tastes & values. TV created dissatisfaction but did not increase the material or occupational aspirations of regular viewers. TV encroaches in a considerable measure on the social structure & social expectations of traditional populations. 10 Tables, 19 References. Modified HA