A Model for Development of Santi-Karuna for Youth

Abstract

The research article consisted of the following objectives: 1) to study the context, problems, concepts, and theories of youth development in Prangku district, Sisaket province; 2) to analyze a model for the development of peaceful youth according to the Buddhist peaceful means; and 2) to acquire a model for the development of Santi-Karuṇā for peaceful youth in Prangku district, Sisaket province. The study was a qualitative research by means of research and development process from studying documents, in-depth interviews, and experimental research. The key informants were divided into 2 groups with a total of 19 persons selected based on qualifications. The research instruments were tested by 12 experts. The results of the study are found as follows: 1) The context and conditions of Prangku district that are exposed to risks are teenage pregnancy, association with friends, and the excessive use of social media; 2) The development of youth to solve the problem by building self-worth, being a leader in the public mind with mindfulness and compassion as a base, recognizing the values in helping others for peace; and 3) A model for the development of Santi-Karuṇā for peaceful youth is the integration of Buddhist peaceful means with modern science which consist of 6 attributes as follows: smiley, calm, kalyāṇa-mittatā (being a good friend), empathetic of others, sharing, and following dreams. All of which can be done through the following 4 steps: opening mind, accepting, developing, and compassionately sharing in order to build peace, to have a kind heart, to help other people from difficulty, to have a public mind for social service, to benefit oneself, family, villages, monasteries, schools, and communities, and lastly, to reduce conflict and to grow with full competencies. The training of peaceful youth to be a role model of youth leader must follow the way of compassion in all 4 aspects: 1) to have courage to think; 2) to have discipline, respect, and acceptance; 3) to have gratitude towards others; and 4) to admire society and environment through the participation of villages, monasteries, schools, and communities. All of which fall under the “Karuna-Dham Model" for peaceful youth, Prangku district, Sisaket province.