BUDDHADHAMMA APPLICATION FOR PROMOTING SELF BEHAVIOR OF INMATES FOR REDUCING REDUCING RECIDIVISM OF SPECIAL CENTRAL CORRECTION INSTITUTION

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1. To study the level of behavioral rehabilitation promotion among inmates in the Central Correctional Institution for Drug Addicts in order to reduce recidivism; 2. To examine the relationship between the Buddhist principles of Hiri (sense of moral shame) and Ottappa (fear of wrongdoing) and the promotion of inmates’ behavioral rehabilitation; and 3. To propose applications of Buddhist principles in promoting behavioral rehabilitation among inmates. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. The quantitative component utilized questionnaires as the primary data collection tool, surveying a sample of 370 inmates from the Central Correctional Institution for Drug Addicts. Data analysis involved frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation, as well as t-test and one-way ANOVA. For the qualitative component, in-depth interviews were conducted with 9 key informants. The data were analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

Findings were as follows: 1. The overall level of behavioral rehabilitation promotion among inmates was found to be at the highest level ( = 4.88). When broken down by aspect, the highest mean score was in the area of generating positive energy and mindset ( = 4.92), followed by cognitive attitude adjustment ( = 4.88), and engagement in public service work for behavioral refinement ( = 4.83). 2. Regarding the relationship between Buddhist principles and behavioral rehabilitation promotion, the results showed a very low positive overall correlation (r = .079**). The Hiri principle (moral shame) had a moderately strong negative correlation (r = -0.132**), whereas the Ottappa principle (fear of wrongdoing) showed a very low positive correlation (r = .061), and 3. For the development guidelines and levels of opinion on the application of Buddhist principles, the findings highlighted the importance of training and educating inmates. A variety of activities integrating Buddhist teachings were organized, aiming to refine inmates’ behavior and support their reintegration into society without repeating offenses after release.