Buddhist Psychological Factors in Relation to the Gratitude Behaviors in Thai Youths

Abstract

This research aimed to: 1. examine the levels of Buddhist psychological factors and gratitude behaviors among Thai youths; 2. investigate the relationships between Buddhist psychological factors and gratitude behaviors; and 3. propose guidelines for enhancing gratitude behaviors among Thai youths. The study employed a correlational research design with a sample of 405 upper secondary school students selected through simple random sampling. The research instruments included the Buddhist Faith Scale, the Buddhist-Oriented Upbringing Scale, the Gratitude Behavior Scale, and a questionnaire on approaches to promoting gratitude behaviors. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics—frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation and inferential statistics through Pearson’s product-moment correlation coefficient.

The findings revealed that: 1. the overall level of Buddhist faith among Thai youths was high (x̅ = 3.50, SD = 0.67), the level of Buddhist-oriented upbringing was moderate (x̅ = 3.38, SD = 0.78), and the level of gratitude behaviors was high (x̅ = 3.87, SD = 0.61); 2. Buddhist faith was positively correlated with gratitude behaviors among Thai youths, showing a statistically significant moderate correlation at the .01 level (r = .675), while Buddhist-oriented upbringing was positively correlated with gratitude behaviors, showing a statistically significant high correlation at the .01 level (r = .724); and 3. the primary approach to fostering gratitude should begin within the family, as children value their families the most. Educational institutions, society, and religious organizations should also play supporting roles in enhancing youths’ awareness and practice of gratitude. Systematic cultivation of such values can lead to sustainable gratitude behaviors among youths.