ABSTRACT

Radio religious programs significantly contribute to the reintegration of families by providing essential spiritual guidance and practical support. These programs promote family values, unity, and forgiveness, while also addressing critical social issues like conflict resolution, substance abuse, and mental health.

The aim of this research was to strategically assess audience perception of the role of radio religious programs on the reintegration of families in Uyo metropolis. Ex-Post Facto research design was adopted for the study.

The population of the study comprised the residents of Uyo metropolis and random sampling technique was used to select the sample size of (383) three hundred and eighty three respondents used for the study.

The Main Instrument used in this study was a questionnaire titled “Audience Perception of the Role of Radio Religious Programs on the Reintegration of Families Questionnaire (APRRRPRFQ)”. The validation of the instrument was carried out by an expert in test, measurement, and evaluation to ensure its validity.

The reliability coefficient obtained was 0.77, and this was high enough to justify the use of the instrument. The researcher subjected the data generated for this study to appropriate statistical techniques such as descriptive statistics and percentage analysis for answering the research question and simple regression and t-test for testing the hypothesis.

The test for significance was done at 0.05 alpha levels. It was established in the study that there is significant relationship between radio religious programs and reintegration of families. The study concluded that the accessibility of radio enables individuals from various backgrounds to engage with religious teachings, fostering inclusivity and strengthening community ties.

In the face of societal pressures, radio religious programs offer hope and inspiration, guiding families toward constructive solutions and resilience.

Alternatively, one of the recommendations made, along with others, is that Radio religious programs should diversify their content to include topics relevant to family reintegration, such as conflict resolution, effective communication, and parenting skills.

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY ON RADIO RELIGIOUS PROGRAMS

Radio has since Guglielmo Marconi’s invention of the wireless telegraph in 1901, developed into a powerful medium for information dissemination and entertainment. Radio plays an  integral role  in providing its  listener with  news, music  and  other programmes,  while also acting as a voice that represents them as well as the society at large (Mogambi, 2016).

Radio is one of the most effective and cheapest means of communication especially in developing and under-developed countries, with almost every household owing or having access to radio either through a radio set or through mobile phones (Myers, 2009).

However, in the last two decades,  as  newer  forms  of  media  such  as  internet,  social  media  amongst  others  have emerged; they have challenged radio’s once-dominant position as a widely used medium that reaches large and heterogeneous audiences (Sherwood, 2015).

Radio religious programs reach a diverse audience, including individuals who may not have direct access to religious institutions, bridging the gap between religious teachings and the public. In recent days stations have been broadcasting sermons, prayers, and religious discussions, radio programs provide listeners with guidance and encouragement that can lead to positive lifestyle changes.

This broadcasting contributes significantly to community cohesion by offering shared experiences and fostering a sense of belonging among listeners, particularly in rural or remote areas. They address complex social issues such as family life, youth behavior, and interfaith relationships, fostering understanding and tolerance.

This aspect of religious radio contributes to the moral development of society by promoting messages of peace, love, and unity (Adeoye, 2019; Ogundele & Alabi, 2021).

Audience perception of radio religious programs often centers on the medium’s role in spiritual growth, moral guidance, and community cohesion. Radio remains a powerful tool for religious programming due to its accessibility, especially in areas with limited internet connectivity or literacy levels.

According to Okoye et al. (2021), radio serves as a bridge, providing listeners with consistent access to religious teachings and fostering a sense of shared values within communities.

Listeners often perceive radio religious programs as not only an information source but also a spiritual companion, which promotes moral values and enhances social cohesion by bringing people together around common beliefs and practices (Musa & Ibrahim, 2019).

Moreover, audience perception of these programs is shaped by the trustworthiness of the content and the credibility of religious speakers featured. Many listeners appreciate the ease with which they can connect to religious messages and receive guidance on life’s challenges without the barrier of physical attendance at religious centers (Eke & Onyebuchi, 2020).

Radio programs often include live interactions, where families can seek advice from religious leaders. This interactive aspect not only provides immediate support but also offers a sense of community, as listeners hear relatable stories and solutions (Abiola, 2018).

During the discussion on relevant family issues and offering guidance grounded in religious teachings, radio religious programs serve as an accessible and influential medium for promoting family reintegration and harmony.

Studies show that radio is accessible to a broad audience, including families facing discord, due to its affordability and wide reach. Programs that emphasize forgiveness, empathy, and understanding can encourage family members to reflect on conflicts, facilitating reconciliation (Olayinka & Aluko, 2019; Adeyemo, 2020).

Nwankwo & Uche, (2021) argued that Religious broadcasts often feature messages on the importance of communication, patience, and mutual respect within familial relationships. For instance, religious leaders discuss topics like conflict resolution, forgiveness, and the value of family cohesion, which can resonate with listeners undergoing familial stress.

These messages can remind family members of their shared beliefs, fostering a sense of unity and reinforcing family bonds (Ojo, 2019).

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM ON RADIO RELIGIOUS PROGRAMS

In recent years, radio religious programs have increasingly been used to reach audiences with messages of faith, social values, and family unity. These broadcasts often aim to reinforce moral teachings, promote community cohesion, and address issues of family conflict and estrangement.

Yet, while radio religious programs have a significant reach and potential to impact family reintegration positively, questions remain about the effectiveness of these programs in promoting lasting family unity and healing.

This study seeks to address the gap in understanding how audiences perceive the influence of radio religious content on family dynamics and reintegration efforts.

Family reintegration involves re-establishing family bonds and resolving conflicts, which can be complex and require consistent support and intervention. Research suggests that media, including radio, can shape social attitudes and behaviors related to family values (Ahmed, Ibrahim, & Musa, 2018; Nwosu, & Chukwu, 2020).

However, limited research has explored audience perceptions specifically related to radio religious programs’ role in family reconciliation. Understanding audience perceptions is essential because they reflect the program’s real-world influence on attitudes and potential actions within families (Akinyemi, & Usoro, 2022).

This study examines how listeners interpret the messages presented in these programs and their perceived role in reinforcing family ties, filling an important gap in the literature on media, religion, and social integration.

1.3 OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY ON RADIO RELIGIOUS PROGRAMS

The main objective of this study is therefore to examine audience perception of the role of radio religious programs on the reintegration of families. In view of this, this study specifically intends to;