Meta-Analysis of the Relationship between the Use of Virtual Social Media and National Identity (Review of Studies Conducted from 2010 to 2018)

Today, the influence of virtual social media on the components of social identity, including national identity, is undeniable. Examining the various aspects of these effects has been the focus of social researchers. A brief look at the research conducted in this field shows different and sometimes contradictory results. Based on this, the current research was conducted with the aim of achieving a comprehensive analysis of the impact of virtual social media on national identity.

The research method is meta-analysis, which examined 21 related studies in 2010-2018. In order to analyze the data, sensitivity analysis, funnel plot, fixed and random models, and heterogeneity analysis were used using comprehensive meta-analysis software (CMA2).

The findings showed the heterogeneity of the effect size in different studies and the lack of publication bias in the considered studies. Also, the results of the effect size of national identity and the use of virtual space are -0.139, which according to Cohen's interpretation system, this effect is evaluated as "weak". In addition, the examination of two moderating variables shows that the coefficient of effect size is higher in students than in citizens, and the effect size is different in the group who exclusively use virtual networks and those who use both websites and social networks.

The results of heterogeneity analysis confirm the viewpoint of theorists who have a realistic approach and believe in the positive and negative effects of virtual space, and the size of the combined effect confirms the view that emphasizes the negative effect of virtual space on identity.