A Buddhist Psychological Innovation for Building Happiness, for Reducing Suffering by Mindfulness and Wisdom for the Elderly in Norway

Abstract

The objectives of this study consisted of 1) to study Buddhist principles and positive psychology in enhancing happiness for reducing suffering of the elderly in Norway; 2) to synthesize a Buddhist Psychological innovation model for building happiness for reducing suffering by mindfulness and wisdom for the elderly in Norway; and 3) to propose and certify a Buddhist Psychological innovation model for building happiness for reducing suffering by mindfulness and wisdom for the elderly in Norway. The study was a qualitative research in nature, using an in-depth interview to collect data from 18 key informants and focus group discussion with 12 specialists, and a connoisseurship of a model was certified by 14 experts. The collected data were analyzed by 6’C Technique and a content analysis.

The findings of the research showed as follows:

1. Enhancing the mental well-being of the elderly in the Norwegian community was an intergration of 3 core bodies of knowledge including 1) Buddhadhama, namely, Threeforld Training (Morality, Condentration, Wisdom) and 4 foundations of mindfulness; 2) positive psychology theory of PERMA Model; and 3) cross cultural communication concept.


2. A Buddhist Psychological innovation model for building happiness for reducing suffering by mindfulness and wisdom for the elderly in Norway consisted of four key innovations including 1) social innovation through international volunteer organizations; 2) Buddhist psychology innovation for four groups of happiness; 3) innovation for relaxation without suffering through wisdom; and 4) life welfare innovation for developing mental growth, with the intention of inspiring the elderly  in Norway, the development of self-awareness of the quality of breath, the strengthening of understanding and intelligence, and the building of a healthy mind and body.


3. For an assessment and certification of a Buddhist Psychological innovation model for building happiness for reducing suffering by mindfulness and wisdom for the elderly in Norway had good assessment results, the presentation of the model as a diagram of the Buddhist Psychological innovation model for building happiness for reducing suffering by mindfulness and wisdom for the elderly in Norway showed the relationship of 4 innovation components called ROONGNAPHA MPW-4 Innovation Model: a Buddhist Psychological innovation for building happiness by mindfulness for reducing suffering, developing happiness as a universal intellectual capital easily accessed for an individual, family, community, and organization.