Perceptions and Behavioral Responses to Gender Equality and Social Inclusion in Online Communities: A Qualitative Study of Arab Youth in Qatar

In Arab societies, cultural norms, family expectations, and social visibility constraints shape how young people encounter and respond to gender-related content in online environments, yet these dynamics remain insufficiently understood. Building on prior survey research and co-design workshops that explored participatory approaches to digital intervention design, this study investigates how Arab youth in Qatar perceive and respond to issues of gender equality and social inclusion in social media contexts.The Qatari context is particularly significant due to its rapid digital transformation combined with strong cultural, religious, and regulatory influences shaping youth online expression. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirty-two participants aged 18 to 24 residing in Qatar. The interviews explored social media activity, experiences of social inclusion, views on gender equality, and perceived challenges alongside culturally appropriate solutions. Interview transcripts were verified and analyzed using thematic analysis. The analysis revealed three interrelated thematic domains: determinants of attitudes rooted in cultural norms, values, and beliefs; attitudes toward gender equality and social inclusion ranging from supportive to resistant; and behavioral outcomes reflected in passive or active engagement as well as prosocial and antisocial digital behaviors. This study provides the first in-depth qualitative account of Arab youth’s perceptions of gender equality and social inclusion in digital spaces and offers culturally grounded insights to inform the design of inclusive and context-sensitive digital interventions.