Identities of Chinese-Thai People in Hat Yai

Abstract

          This research aimed to study the Identities of Chinese Thai People in Hat Yai Province by using the qualitative research method, identity concept, power relationship-oriented concept and Ideas of cultural diversity. The study area was in Hat Yai, Songkhla.

It was found that Identity of the Chinese Thai People have many characteristics, are flexible and they form the relationship with other group in the area. This identity was developed in accordance with the social structure, beliefs and the ceremonies based on the social context, the cultural context, context of trade, political context or the context of living. The emergence of Chinese Thai People Identity can be clam tied as “multi characteristics” type. There are the Identity that are self-defined, or defined by various groups and the identities that is expected from society. Some time Chinese Thai People consider themselves “Chinese" as they are using Chinese language, participate in Chinese New Year Festival, pay respect to god and observe religious precepts or rite.   They call themselves "Thai” as they use Thai dialects men as standard Thai, Northern dialect or Northern Thai dialect. The refer to themselves as “Chinese Thai People" when they take part in Chinese culture.  The choices of defined identity world depend on the resulting benefits. Chinese Thai People are, therefore, select in representing their identity depending on the siltation    they are facing.