HAPPINESS AND BUDDHISM AMONG YOUNG GENERATION (Z) IN THAILAND

Abstract

Background and Objective: This research investigates the impact of religiosity and religious activities on the happiness of the young generation (Ages 11-26) of Buddhists in Thailand. It aims to analyze the relationship between these religious aspects and the happiness levels among the young generation of Buddhists in Thailand. This study hypothesized that practicing Buddhist principles (Religiosity) and participating in religious activities influenced the happiness of the young generation of Buddhists in Thailand.

Methodology: A quantitative approach was utilized, analyzing secondary data from a national survey that included a sample of 1,880 young Buddhists in Thailand. The study was structured in two main sections: A summary of demographic characteristics and the results of hypothesis testing. The demographic data was summarized to understand the profile of the participants, including gender, age, marital status, education, employment, and nationality. Hypothesis testing was then conducted to evaluate the impact of religiosity and religious activities on happiness.

Main Results: The demographic revealed that the majority of participants were Thai (94%), female (54%), aged 21-26 (56%), and predominantly single (71%). Most had primary education and were employed in agriculture (80%). Hypothesis testing results indicated that Hypothesis 1: Religiosity significantly supports happiness among the young generation of Buddhists, showing that higher levels of religiosity, including praying, listening to sermons, observing the five precepts, meditation, becoming a nun, and participating in New Year prayers were associated with higher happiness. Hypothesis 2: Religious activity plays a role in supporting happiness among the young generation of Buddhists, showing that higher levels of religious activity, including incorporating religious teachings into daily living, using religious principles to solve life problems, maintaining belief in religious faith, and practicing according to religious doctrines were associated with higher happiness.

Involvement to Buddhadhamma: This research investigates the relationship between Buddhist practices, both religiosity and religious activity and happiness among the young generation of Buddhists in Thailand. The findings provide empirical evidence that engaging in Buddhist practices significantly enhances well-being and happiness, highlighting Buddhism's potential to improve quality of life. These insights align with the principles of Applied Buddhism, which integrates traditional Buddhist teachings with modern knowledge and innovations. For example, the application of Buddhist management, economics with the Four Noble Truths, and development processes reflects how religious principles can address contemporary challenges. Additionally, Buddhist practices such as youth development camps, classroom management, and religious rituals promote wisdom and morality, further supporting mental well-being among the young generation. These findings can inform policy-making, emphasizing the importance of spiritual happiness in fostering psychological well-being and sustainability.

Conclusions: The study highlighted the significant role of religiosity and religious activities in fostering happiness among young Buddhists in Thailand. It suggested that these aspects not only contributed to individual well-being but also promoted community harmony and resilience. The results underscored the importance of religious practices in providing a sense of purpose, comfort, and support, reflecting the integral role of Buddhism in the lives of the young Thai Buddhist population.