Attitude and Behavior of Thai Youths toward the World Cultural Heritage: The Case of Ayutthaya Historical Park

Abstract

          The purpose of the research was to study the attitude and behavior of Thai youths toward the world cultural heritage of the Ayutthaya Historical Park. The sampling of this research was 450 Thai youths who visited this park. Questionnaires were used as a tool for data collection. The data was analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, t-test and F-test.
          The research results revealed that most Thai youths recognized the Ayutthaya Historical Park as the world cultural heritage site through the internet. In addition, most of them first visited the park for leisure with their families and their relatives. They traveled by car during the weekend and spent about 500-1,000 baht each time. Most Thai youths want to revisit the place again. They were impressed by the surrounding environment, beauty, atmosphere, traditional culture and its representation as sources of national identity and education.
           As for the attitude of Thai youths toward the Ayutthaya Historical Park, it was found that most Thai youths have a good attitude toward the park. In terms of managing areas, protection and conservation, the facilities, public relation, and the role of the government. Only the involvement of local people which was found to be moderately satisfying.
           In addition, it was found that Thai youths from different demographics, e, g., age, education and differences in careers of their parents, have different attitudes. There are little differences in attitudes in teams of gender and average income.