Guidelines for Preventing and Resolving Violence Against Children According to Buddhist Principles

Abstract

As Thai society has become more complicated, there has also been an increase in violence towards children. In many cases, children have been victims of violence in solving problems or have been used by family members or caregivers as a tool to vent emotions. If violence problems in children, especially in early childhood, are not addressed, the culture of violence in society will continue. Until now, the guidelines for resolving violence against children have been legal mechanisms and relief measures from the government or related agencies. However, the researcher believes that the roots of violence problems in children are due to a twisted mind that lacks the use of the Dhamma to uplift the mind and cultivate loving kindness and compassion. Therefore, it is necessary for authorities and people involved in child care to raise awareness of the consequences of violence on children. This includes applying the Buddhadhamma to cultivate the mind not to use violence. This research article aims at presenting the guidelines for resolving violence against children by using the following dhammas: mettā (loving-kindness), karunā (compassion), muditā (sympathetic joy), and upekkhā (equanimity). These dhammas can help prevent inappropriate behavior that leads to violence against children in order to achieve happiness and peace in families, communities, and society.