The Significance of Audience Participation in Prison Radio

A case study of Rikugame at Toyohashi Prison

Abstract

Through the lens of narrative approach and care communication, this study highlighted the significance of inmate participation as audience of radio programs. These programs are produced and broadcasted for prison inmates, through their song requests and messages. Interviews with disc jockeys and prison officials about a program produced at the Toyohashi Penitentiary Branch of Nagoya Prison revealed the program's role of operating as a forum for emotional inmate communication and exchange of approvals.