BUDDHIST INTEGRATION FOR ALLEVIATING THE FLOOD CRISIS AMONG THE PEOPLE THROUGH THE OPERATIONS OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE NETWORK ORGANIZATIONS IN PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aimed: 1. To examine the current state of flood crisis mitigation efforts for the public through the operations of public and private network organizations in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; 2. To identify factors influencing the effectiveness of these flood mitigation efforts; and 3. To propose a Buddhist-integrated approach to enhance flood crisis mitigation under the operations of such network organizations. The conceptual framework integrates Sangahavatthu 4, the Deming Cycle (PDCA), and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. This mixed-method study involved 19 key informants and a sample of 400 households, selected using Taro Yamane’s formula. Research tools included in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires. Data collection encompassed both qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative data were analyzed through content descriptive interpretation, while quantitative data were examined using means, Pearson’s correlation coefficients (r), and stepwise multiple regression.

The research finding revealed that: 1. current flood crisis mitigation efforts involved systematic pre-planning and multi-sectoral coordination, though some areas still experience delays. Evaluation processes contributed to development but could benefit from greater openness to feedback. Adjustments are generally responsive and inclusive. 2. All variables showed mean scores above 3.6 and statistically correlations coefficients (r) > 0.5, Significant level = 0.01, with both hypotheses supported by over 50% explained variance, indicating that both independent variables significantly affect the dependent variable. 3. The Buddhist-integrated approach suggests that planning should be grounded in human understanding and dignity; operations should be swift and compassionate; evaluations transparent and inclusive; and improvements based on shared learning for community restoration.