The Functions of Radio for Teens: Where Radio Fits Among Youth Media Choices

Abstract

This research examines the function radio plays in the lives of today's youth. Teens have more media choices available to them than ever before. This study provides a contemporary benchmark for understanding the role of radio for teens. Among the findings here are that teens tend to have different functional uses for radio on the week days versus the weekends. Also, this study suggests that the notion of entertainment as a motive for radio listening with this audience may be a more complex notion than previously thought. Finally, this study reveals positive relationships between radio use and other media-both during the weekends and week days. The study suggests further research into gender differences and radio use.