Family Alienation in Saudi Society: An Analytical Field Study in Light of Karl Marx's Theory of Alienation

Abstract

This study aims to explore the phenomenon of family alienation in Saudi society in light of Karl Marx’s six dimensions: estrangement, loneliness, powerlessness, exploitation, diminished enjoyment, and lack of appreciation. A descriptive survey method was applied to a sample of 1,693 Saudi adults (20 years and above) distributed across different regions of the Kingdom, using a questionnaire designed according to Marx’s framework. The findings revealed that the overall level of family alienation was relatively low; however, exploitation was the most prominent dimension (41.7%), followed by powerlessness (32.4%), while loneliness recorded the lowest level (26.2%). Significant differences were found across demographic variables, with higher alienation among younger participants, low-income groups, members of larger families, and those spending longer hours online. Correlation analysis also showed strong interrelations among the six dimensions, indicating their overlap in shaping individuals’ emotional experiences. The study concludes that role-related pressures and imbalance in appreciation are the most critical sources of family alienation in Saudi society. It highlights the need for preventive and counseling programs that enhance mutual recognition, ensure fair distribution of responsibilities, and promote balanced use of digital media. The findings emphasize incorporating family alienation into national social policies and encourage further studies that address its theoretical and applied dimensions