Abstract
This study examined the roles of perceived influence of the media, exposure to verbal assault, and desire for self-reliance on national identity. Using an online self-reported questionnaire from Qatari college students (N = 293). Mediation analysis revealed that both perceived media influence and desire for self-reliance fully mediated the effects of exposure to verbal assault on national identity. The findings support the efficacy of strategies which targeted the development and implementation of media and economic programs fostering the construction and/or strengthening of a sense of national identity in Qatar during the Gulf crisis.