The Family Crisis in Thai Society: A Study andBuilding ofthePeaceful Family with Gharāvāsa-Dhamma

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are: 1) to analytically study the problems and obstacles of Thai peaceful family, 2) to analyze the principles of Gharāvāsa-Dhamma from Theravada Buddhist scriptures, and 3) to propose guidelines for the development of Gharāvāsa-Dhamma to promote peaceful families by documentary survey, In-depth interviews 19 people and focus group 7 people in the central region.

          The results of the study revealed as follows:

         1) The current problems and obstacles of peaceful families in society are due to selfishness in families, taking advantages, the lack of respect, the lack of gratitude for people graceful to them, not believing in the law of Kamma that says doing good things and good things will happen to you which is caused by the lack of honesty, the lack of emotional control, the lack of patience and the lack of sacrifice to share. Therefore, Families in Thai society confronts more divorce problems due to economic pressures, higher cost of livings and not enough income for expenditure.

         2) Gharāvāsa-Dhamma inTheravada Buddhism are consisted of 4 things, (1) Sacca- truth and honesty, (2) Dama- training oneself, (3) Khanti- tolerance and (4) Caga- sacrifice, sharing and generosity are the direct principles for lay people m in household, is also a moral principle that controls household lay people to be harmonious making their lives to be peaceful and smooth.

         3) As for the promotion of peaceful family according to Gharāvāsa-Dhamma is to create a system that helps family members become happier and families have more peace. In addition, to prepare families to accept the changes and family problems in different aspects that affects the family crisis.