Tai Song Dam Ethnic: Social Relations among Tai Song Dam Ethnic Community in Suratthani Province

Abstract

This paper investigates the construction of social relations in Tai Song Dam ethnic community in Suratthani province. Qualitative methodological approach is adopted in the study. Data are collected through observation, records of life-history, in-depth interviews, and group interviews, which are research instruments. This paper is conducted based on an assumption that new social relation structure is formed through Tai Song Dam’s social practices.

The results show that Tai Song Dam ethnic group has formed their social relations through their reflexive thoughts and practices in everyday life. Some social regulations and local resources are changed and adopted in order to form a new social relation structure. Social relations in community are represented through 4 internal practices which are 1) the ancestor worship with fruits, 2) modification of traditional dancing, 3) the Sajja’s saving group, and 4) decoration of Tai Song Dam fabric. In brief, these new community practices have formed a social structure for the Tai Song Dam community.