Buddhist Psychology for Self-Awareness Enhancement: Integrating Dhamma Principles and Psychological Theories for Working-Age Sandwich Generation in Digital Society Era

Abstract

This article aims to present the integration of Buddhist psychology and modern psychological theories to enhance self-awareness among the Sandwich Generation (working adults aged 35–50 years) in the context of a digital society. The analysis indicates that this group, which accounts for approximately 25% of Thailand’s working-age population, faces significant challenges arising from multiple concurrent responsibilities, including caring for elderly parents, raising children, and maintaining financial stability through employment. At the same time, they must adapt to rapid technological changes. These demands contribute to high levels of stress, physical health problems, and mental health concerns, with 32.4% experiencing job burnout. The article proposes the application of the Paccavekkhaṇasutta, which provides a framework for contemplating four categories of mental states: unwholesome states not yet arisen, unwholesome states already arisen, wholesome states not yet arisen, and wholesome states already arisen. This framework is integrated with the Four Brahmavihāras (loving-kindness, compassion, appreciative joy, and equanimity) and modern psychological approaches, including Positive Psychology (PERMA), Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR), and Emotional Intelligence (EI), to develop skills in managing emotions, thoughts, and behaviors. Practical applications include mindfulness practices in daily life, proactive stress management, resilience building, effective time management, and holistic health care. The findings suggest that integrating Buddhist principles and modern psychological theories can help working adults achieve a balance among their multiple responsibilities while effectively coping with the challenges of the digital era. Such integration contributes to an improved quality of life and the cultivation of sustainable well-being and happiness.