The Integration of Buddhist Principles with Practical Social Work

Abstract

This academic article aims to present the integration of Buddhist principles into the practice of social work as a culturally appropriate approach to disaster relief and care for those affected by crises in the Thai context. Practical social work serves as a vital mechanism for healing, rehabilitation, and enhancing the quality of life for individuals facing adversity, particularly in disaster situations that cause both physical and psychological harm. In Thailand, the implementation of social work must take into account the cultural and spiritual foundations of the people, among which Buddhism plays a significant role in shaping societal behaviors and beliefs. The integration of Buddhist teachings into practical social work is thus a contextually appropriate strategy that can profoundly empower disaster victims from within. The Four Brahmaviharas—loving-kindness (metta), compassion (karuna), sympathetic joy (mudita), and equanimity (upekkha)—are core Buddhist principles that pertain to human relationships and can serve as a framework for delivering social services in a manner that upholds humanitarian values and respects human dignity. The Four Noble Truths (Ariyasacca) provide a tool for analyzing suffering and identifying a path to its cessation, while the Threefold Training (Tisikkha)—namely morality (Sila), concentration (samadhi), and wisdom (pañna)—offers a comprehensive approach for cultivating the minds and behaviors of both social workers and aid recipients with mindfulness and moral integrity. The application of these Buddhist principles to social work practices goes beyond temporary relief; it fosters inner potential, restores hope, and lays the foundation for long-term social resilience. This reflects the profound spiritual dimension embedded in social work within Thai society. The synthesis of findings suggests that Buddhist principles not only offer emotional support to disaster victims, but also promote the development of internal strengths and contribute to long-term social cohesion. In terms of policy recommendations, the article proposes the promotion of collaborative networks among social workers, Buddhist monks, religious leaders, clergy, and community-based organizations in order to develop a systematic Buddhist-oriented model of social work. Such a model would provide an effective and spiritually grounded framework for responding to future disasters.