The Development to Processes to Promote Family Happiness Based on Buddhist Peaceful Principles

Abstract

The research article consisted of the following objectives 1) to investigate the context and general conditions of families in Lam Phak Chi Subdistrict, Nong Chok District, Bangkok, as well as contemporary principles, concepts, theories, and methods for promoting family happiness; 2) to examine Buddhist peaceful means conducive to promoting family happiness in Lam Phak Chi Subdistrict, Nong Chok District, Bangkok; and 3) to develop and evaluate processes that promote family happiness based on Buddhist peaceful means for the Lam Phak Chi Subdistrict, Nong Chok District community. A mixed-methods research strategy was used for the study. The sample group consisted of 15 families chosen through purposive sampling based on the specified qualities. The research and development approach, as well as quasi-experimental research, were included in the analysis.

From the study, the following results are found: 1) Family problems in Lam Phak Chi Subdistrict are similar to those in other Bangkok communities, such as the lack of affection within the family because members spend so much time earning money for the family that they have no time for each other, causing them to feel distant and their descendants to seek friendships with friends outside the family. As a result, family roles become less important, leading to a lack of responsibility for matters within one's family; 2) The Buddhadhamma that develops desirable qualities of family members include the development of the five ennobling virtues through observing the five precepts, the development of mindfulness and comprehension through chanting and meditation based on Satipaṭṭhāna (the four foundations of mindfulness), the development of loving-kindness, creating thinking, and Saṅgahavatthu (the four bases of social solidarity), and lastly, the development of Kalyāṇa-mittatā (good friendship); and 3) The processes to promote family happiness based on Buddhist peaceful means consist of four steps, which are (1) the first step is to establish mutual agreement as a family rule and regulation, writing it down as a record, and ensuring that everyone is fully informed and implements, (2) the second step is to perform one’s responsibilities within the family based on Disā (six directions), (3) the third step is to engage in activities that promote harmony and build relationships in order to foster love, particularly Buddhist activities such as observing the five precepts, conducting morning and nightly chanting, and meditation, and (4) the fourth step is to consult about family matters, problems, and obstacles that may arise within the family or among family members using good friendship principles.