Dhammathas Academic Journal

Democratic Innovations and Local Electoral Local in Isaan: Challenges, Opportunities, and the Future

Phrakhru Payutsaradhamma (Worachat Thasa) — 2025-09-30

This academic article aims to explore approaches for applying democratic innovations to promote and develop the local election process in the Northeastern region (Isan) of Thailand. It analyzes the political, social, and cultural contexts that are unique to the region, which influence the dynamics and challenges of local politics. The article reviews theoretical concepts related to democracy, civic participation, various types of democratic innovations, and the current state of local politics in the Isan region. It then presents examples of applicable democratic innovations, such as civic technology (Civic Tech), public consultation processes, and new forms of civic education. The study indicates that the implementation of democratic innovations faces several challenges, including patronage systems, digital divides, and resource constraints. However, there are also opportunities and supporting factors—particularly the growing engagement of younger generations and the presence of civil society networks in the area. The article concludes with policy recommendations for relevant agencies and suggestions for future research, with the aim of enhancing the quality, transparency, and responsiveness of local politics in the Isan region to better meet the real needs of its people.

Development of Traffic Management Model Using Public Electric Bus System in Bangkok Area

Ahttakorn Thippayasothorn — 2025-09-26

This research aimed to 1) study the factors affecting the success of solving traffic problems in Bangkok, 2) study measures to support the introduction of public electric buses to provide services to the public in Bangkok, and 3) develop a traffic management model with a public electric bus system in Bangkok. This research was conducted using qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews with 25 people, including policymakers, policy implementers, stakeholders, and researchers involved in traffic and transportation. The data was analyzed in terms of content.
The research results found that:
1. Factors affecting the success of solving traffic problems in Bangkok the research results found that there were 9 factors as follows: 1) The policy that was set had academic theories and empirical evidence as proof. 2) Having work standards. 3) Responsibility and evaluation. 4) Having a clear structure and responsibility for the agency. 5) Enforcement of the law. 6) Efficiency in planning and control. 7) Politics and environmental management. 8) Leadership and cooperation. And 9) Organizational competence.
2. Measures to support the introduction of public electric buses to provide services to the public in Bangkok. It was found that there were specific lanes for public electric buses, not allowing other types of vehicles to drive or limiting them to other types using the least amount of lanes. Can determine the time of vehicle release and arrival.
3. Measures to support the introduction of public electric buses to provide services to the public in the Bangkok area. There are 9 success factors in solving traffic problems in the Bangkok area. The main principle is “must make the cost of using private cars higher than using public electric buses.”

Components of Competence in Active Learning Management of Teachers in Primary Schools

Ratchaneewan Siripan — 2025-09-26

This research aimed to study components of competence in active learning of teachers in primary schools. The research was conducted in three phases: 1) Studying the components by reviewing relevant theories, concepts, and research literature through content analysis; 2) Conducting interviews with five experts; and 3) Evaluating the appropriateness of the identified teacher competency components in active learning among primary school teachers by five experts. The research instruments included a document synthesis form, an interview form, and a five-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using content analysis, mean, and standard deviation.
The research findings revealed that: the components of teacher competency in active learning among primary school teachers consist of four elements:1) Designing learning experiences to promote student engagement, 2) Organizing learner-centered learning activities,3) Utilizing and developing innovative technologies to stimulate student learning, and 4) Assessing and evaluating learning outcomes to enhance student development. All components were found to be highly appropriate.

Approaches of Development of Research Competency among Teachers under the Surin Primary Educational Service Area Office 3

Jarumas Sangsavang — 2025-09-26

The purposes of this research were: 1) to investigate the factors influencing teachers' research competencies, and 2) to explore approaches for enhancing research competencies among teachers under the Surin Primary Educational Service Area Office 3. The research sample comprised 720 teachers selected using stratified random sampling. A questionnaire was employed as the research instrument. Data were analyzed using percentage, mean, standard deviation, structural equation modeling (SEM), and content analysis.
The results of the research found that:
1. The factors influencing teachers' research competencies included fundamental factors (β = 0.134), teacher-related factors (β = 0.229), and support-related factors (β = 0.537), all of which had a statistically significant direct positive effect on teachers' research competencies.
2. The approaches for enhancing teachers' research competencies were categorized into five key areas: 1) developing teachers' research capacity and knowledge, 2) conducting hands-on training workshops, 3) providing resource support and academic mentoring, 4) reducing time constraints and workload burdens, and 5) fostering a research culture and collaborative learning networks.

Creating Cultural Soft Power Through Mon Local Food Wisdom in Khlong Sam Wa, Bangkok

Nitta Roonkaseam — 2025-09-27

This study aimed to 1) analyze the local wisdom and cultural values embodied in Mon traditional cuisine in Bangkok’s Khlong Sam Wa District, and 2) assess its potential as cultural soft power for the Khlong Sam Wa community. A participatory action research (PAR) design was employed. Key informants (n = 5), purposively selected, comprised local knowledge holders, traditional food entrepreneurs, a community leader, and a representative of the Thai-Raman Paen Thong Club. Survey participants (n = 85) were attendees of the “Taste of Mon Legend” event. Research instruments comprised a semi-structured interview guide, an observation checklist, and a questionnaire. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean, percentage, standard deviation), while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis.
The research found that:
1. Mon traditional food in Khlong Sam Wa reflects the accumulated wisdom and cultural values, especially in the studied dishes: Kaeng Hong, Kaeng Kati Woon Sen, and Khanom Niao. The wisdom and cultural values can be categorized into 3 main aspects: wisdom in the use of ingredients, wisdom in the cooking process, and the cultural value of Mon food.
2. Mon traditional food in Khlong Sam Wa has high potential to be a cultural soft power, as recognized by the event participants at a very high level, especially in terms of the uniqueness of the food (51.76%) and the taste and quality of ingredients (50.59%). This can be used as a tool to promote community identity, attract tourists, and generate economic value.

Education or Labor Migration: The Empowerment of Thai-So Women, Sakon Nakhon Province, Thailand

Benjapa Kaithong — 2025-09-27

The objective of this research was to examine the influence of education and labor migration on the empowerment of Thai-So women across generations, this study employed the Women’s Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI) to analyze decision-making roles in the areas of household, agricultural production, income control, and access to productive resources. The Kusuman district was chosen as the area of study due to the significant number of the Thai-So ethnic group, who primarily use the ‘So’ language to communicate within their communities and families. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select thirty-six key informants, and semi-structured interview guidelines were used as the research instrument.
Findings reveal that: education and labor migration are mutually reinforcing pathways to empowerment. While education offers foundational skills and social mobility, it also enables labor migration, which provides immediate financial benefits, exposure to broader social networks, and decision-making experience. Among Baby Boomers and Generation X, migration played a central role, with education having only limited influence. In contrast, Generation Y women, who had greater access to formal education, were able to secure better job opportunities outside their communities, leading to enhanced empowerment outcomes upon returning home.

This study introduces a new “Three-Layer Empowerment Model,” which conceptualizes empowerment as an interaction between socio-cultural structures, individual agency, and observable outcomes. The model captures how gender, ethnicity, and generational change intersect to shape empowerment trajectories in a patriarchal rural society. It also highlights the importance of integrated policy support for both educational access and labor mobility in advancing empowerment among ethnic women in Southeast Asia.

Grounded Theory Study of a School with Outstanding Sufficiency Economy Practices

Supawich Kongsakban — 2025-09-27

This research aims to: 1) Examine the characteristics and causal conditions of the core phenomenon related to the development of schools adhering to the principles of sufficiency economy that have been recognized for their excellence; 2) Investigate the strategies employed by these schools, which have earned them recognition as outstanding practitioners of the sufficiency economy, including specific contextual conditions and general intervening conditions affecting the choice of these strategies; and 3) Analyze the consequential outcomes resulting from the implementation of these strategies that illustrate the schools' excellence in applying the principles of sufficiency economy. This study employs a qualitative research approach, with a sample comprising 40 individuals involved in the phenomenon providing data through interviews. The instruments employed in this study consisted of open-ended questionnaires for conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions; observation checklists for both participant and non-participant observations; audio recording devices; and relevant official documents, while data analysis is conducted using constant comparative data analysis. This process involves comparing the new and the existing information categories and adopting an inductive approach to analyze indicators, codes, and categories throughout the research period to eliminate redundancy. Data analysis follows 3 stages: 1) Open Coding, 2) Axial Coding, and 3) Selective Coding, culminating in developing a logical paradigm or a visual representation of the generated theory.
The findings of the research indicate that:
1. The characteristics and causal conditions of the core phenomenon in sufficiency economy schools are rooted in the sufficiency economy principles.
2. Contextual and intervening conditions influence the strategic choices of sufficiency economy schools.
3. The consequences of employing these strategies include observable changes, the learning center establishment, and educational resources aligned with the sufficiency economy principles.

The Service Identity of Flight Attendants on Thai National Airlines: A Case Study of Thai Airways International

Tanisorn Wudhikawinwong — 2025-09-27

This study aimed to explore the Thai service identity of flight attendants working for Thai Airways, using Michel Foucault’s concept of Technologies of the Self as the theoretical framework. Foucault’s perspective posits that individuals can shape and discipline themselves through discourse and social norms. This qualitative research employed semi-structured in-depth interviews and a narrative approach to collect data from 20 purposively selected key informants, including both current and retired flight attendants. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis, and the credibility of the findings was verified through triangulation.
Research findings align with the objectives of the study on the Thai-style service identity of flight attendants, which is shaped through training, organizational culture, and work experience. The study identifies four key aspects of Thai-style service identity: (1) communication through Thai cultural expressions in service, (2) building positive relationships with passengers, (3) integrating Thainess to solve service-related problems, and (4) incorporating safety standards with a distinctly Thai identity. The research highlights that Thai-style service is not merely a set of technical skills, but a process of identity formation with unique characteristics. It is also a cultural strategy that creates a competitive advantage in the global in-flight service industry.

The Development of a Professional Learning Community Model by Using Lesson Study with Mentoring to Develop Competency in Active Learning Management of Assistant Teachers

Mutita Eamtip — 2025-09-27

The purposes of the research were to: 1) investigate the foundational data and needs for developing a professional learning community model and 2) develop and evaluate the quality of the professional learning community model. It is a mixed-methods research. The Population and target groups used in the research was 9 school administrators and 44 assistant teachers. The tools for collecting the data included 1) document analysis forms, 2) interview forms, 3) questionnaires, and 4) model suitability evaluation forms. It is a Index of item objective congruence is 1.00 The data were analyzed using means, standard deviations, and content analysis.
The research findings revealed that:
1. The study of foundational data on developing the professional learning community model disclosed that administrators, teachers, and experts emphasized the importance of developing teachers' competencies in active learning through a professional learning community process, combined with lesson study and mentorship. This approach promotes assistant teachers' knowledge and understanding of active learning, learning design, and learning management, ultimately leading to improved student outcomes.
2. The professional learning community model, 2S2L Model, consists of 6 components: 1) principles, 2) objectives, 3) processes, 4) evaluation, 5) essential conditions for implementation, and 6) supporting factors. The quality evaluation.

Self-Identity Formation Through Bio-Power of Facilitators in Sufficiency Economy Philosophy

Ananta Chuamuangphan — 2025-09-27

This research analyzes the process of self-identity formation among grassroots wisdom teachers specializing in The Sufficiency Economy Philosophy. It employs Michel Foucault's concept of bio-power and uses a qualitative research methodology based on a Foucauldian approach to life history. This method integrates the study of individual life narratives with discourse analysis to understand how social power and knowledge shape and mold an individual's identity and experience. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, observations, and note-taking, focusing on the experiences of 15 grassroots wisdom teachers.
The research findings reveal that: the self-identity of these wisdom teachers can be classified into three characteristics: 1) Self-identity aligned with lifestyle, which reflects their adherence to the principles of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy, such as self-reliance, resource management, and serving as a positive role model. 2) Self-identity as a knowledge-transmitting teacher, which emphasizes inspiring and promoting learning among the community and youth, moving beyond simple information dissemination to include the development of life skills and the creation of a sustainable society. 3) Self-identity constructed through organizational support, which positions them as knowledge disseminators to the public, contributing to the sustainable development of communities, society, and the nation.

The Study and Development of a Community-Based Tourism Management Model Based on the Principles of the King’s Philosophy for Sustainability: A Case Study of Ban Muang Kham, Chiang Mai Province

Worapol Wattanalaungarun — 2025-09-27

This study aimed to: 1) examine the potential and readiness of the internal (strengths/ weaknesses) and external (opportunities/ threats) environments of Ban Muang Khum community in relation to community-based tourism management; 2) investigate problems and obstacles affecting the development of Ban Muang Khum as a community-based tourism destination; and 3) propose sustainable models for community-based tourism development and management based on the Principles of the King’s Philosophy. A community-based participatory research approach was employed. The population consisted of two groups: Group 1 included 221 households in Ban Muang Khum, with data collected through unstructured interviews, both non-participant and participant observations, and in-depth interviews with 10 community leaders. Group 2 comprised 16 government and private sector personnel, from whom data were collected through focus group discussions. Additional methods included document review, interviews, observations, and focus groups. Data were analyzed using SWOT analysis and content analysis. The proposed models for sustainable community-based tourism development grounded in the Principles of the King’s Philosophy. were assessed for appropriateness and feasibility by experts, stakeholders, and community members, yielding mean scores of 4.50, 5.00, and 4.69 respectively.
The findings indicate that:
1. Ban Muang Khum community demonstrates strong capacity for community-based tourism development in terms of physical resources, tourism components, leadership, and human resource readiness for self-management. The community leverages its agricultural way of life to create agrotourism routes and advance community-based tourism development under the Principles of the King’s Philosophy, thereby strengthening participation and resilience, and receiving national recognition.
2. Internal challenges include limited cultural capital, partial lack of participation in tourism management, insufficient quality of local tourism information, discontinuity in online promotion, nascent service standardization, and a weak community-based tourism fund. External challenges involve competition from emerging tourist destinations in Mae Rim and Samoeng districts, along with cultural misunderstandings caused by the influx of outsiders.
3. The sustainable development and management of community-based tourism in Ban Muang Khum, grounded in the Principles of the King’s Philosophy, can be conceptualized into seven models: (a) community-based tourism, (b) homestay tourism, (c) educational tourism, (d) conservation tourism, (e) recreational and experiential tourism, (f) responsible tourism, and (g) business-oriented tourism.

Marketing Strategies for Products through Designing Thai Silk into Contemporary Culture: Case Studies in Northern, Northeastern, and Central Regional

Sun Soodket — 2025-09-27

The research article is to 1) study the general condition of the Thai silk industry 2) study product formats with the current design of Thai silk 3) study the characteristics of demand for silk products by foreign customers 4) study guidelines for product development. t o m e e t market needs, and (5) to develop product marketing strategies for competitiveness. This research employed a qualitative design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 30 key informants and focus group discussions with 10 people through purposive selection. The obtained data was analyzed for content and context and presented descriptively.
The results of the research found that:
1. At present, the general condition of the Thai silk industry faces problems with substandard production processes. Inadequate marketing and public relations A shortage of labor and inheritors of wisdom, etc., puts the Thai silk industry at a disadvantage to competitors. Therefore, it is necessary to find a solution. To push forward into the world market.
2. The current format of Thai silk products still has many limitations. From a limited variety of colors and patterns Product formats that are not modern and do not respond to market needs the quality of the product is not yet up to international standards. Problems of weak marketing communication.
3. Given the international market Foreigners, especially the new generation Want products that are diverse in both types and formats. It is modern in design but still unique. Quality and standards and sold through various online channels.
4. Product development guidelines should focus on pattern development. New product shapes Marketing through digital media Organizing fashion shows on the world stage As well as designing attractive packaging that conveys the quality and value of the product.
5. For important marketing strategies that should be implemented at multiple levels. To drive the Thai silk industry towards target customers. The results of the research have indicated important problems and obstacles in many dimensions of the Thai silk industry. as well as guidelines and strategies for developing and enhancing competitive potential. That requires cooperation from all relevant sectors. To develop the competitiveness of Thai silk products on the world stage sustainably.

A Study of Stories and Legends Associated with the Origins of the Village and Town Names, Mueang District, Loei Province

Surathadchanukoon Nunphoobal — 2025-09-29

This qualitative study aims to explore and compile stories, legends, and history accounts, and the origins of village and town names associated with the ecological system in Mueang District, Loei Province. Data were collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, and observation method. The findings were analyzed descriptive used to develop innovative media for presenting local knowledge to the community. The results were presented using descriptive analysis.
The results revealed that: 1. The study of stories and legends associated with the origins of village and town names has shown that the names of villages and towns in Mueang District, Loei Province are often derived from ecological environments. The naming origins can be categorized into six types: 1) Names based on geographical features, 2) Names derived from local animals, 3) Names inspired by plants or fruits, 4) Names reflecting specific environmental features within the community, 5) Names influenced by cultural and social characteristics or symbolic elements, and 6) Names representing the environment as a whole. 2. The analysis of the naming principles related to the ecological system has shown that stories and legends can be categorized into seven groups: 1) Stories and legends related to water, 2) Stories and legends related to soil/rice fields, 3) Stories and legends related to trees, 4) Stories and legends related to mountains/caves, 5) Stories and legends related to people /culture, 6) Stories and legend related to animals, and 7) Stories and legends related to other ecology characteristics. Cultural resource management has been done by utilizing information to develop innovative media that returns knowledge to the community in the following forms: 1) A book on the origins of village and town names in Mueang District, Loei Province; 2) A cultural tourism map; 3) A video introducing eco-tourism sites.

A Study of Problems in Teaching Thai Literature in Higher Education and Learning Management Approaches Based on Critical Theory and the Jurisprudential Inquiry Model with Digital Media to Promote Critical Thinking Skills

Sathaporn Poompao — 2025-09-29

This study aimed to: (1) examine the problems in teaching Thai literature in higher education, and (2) explore instructional approaches based on critical theory and the Jurisprudential Inquiry Model integrated with digital media to enhance critical thinking skills. This research uses mixed methodologies, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The participants consisted of:
(1) six Thai literature instructors from the Thai Language Teaching at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University in the northern; (2) thirty-five third-year students enrolled in the same program and region; and (3) seven experts in Thai literature instruction at the higher education level. The research instruments included: (1) one interview form on instructional problems, (2) one questionnaire, and (3) one interview form on instructional approaches. Data were analyzed using statistics such as mean (), standard deviation (S.D.), and content analysis.
The findings revealed that:
1. The problems in teaching Thai literature were categorized into two dimensions: (1) Instructor-related problems, which included issues concerning instructional principles, methods, techniques, learning materials and resources, learning activities, assessment and evaluation, the role of the instructor, and the classroom environment; (2) Learner-related problems, which were found to be at a high level ( = 4.12, S.D. = 0.24). The most prominent issue was the lack of learning materials and resources ( = 4.59, S.D. = 0.61), followed by learner-related factors ( = 4.51, S.D. = 0.66), literature content ( = 3.71, S.D. = 1.10), and learning activities ( = 3.68, S.D. = 0.99).
2. The instructional approach based on Habermas’s critical theory and the Jurisprudential Inquiry Model, combined with digital media, was found to be effective in fostering learners’ critical thinking skills. Critical theory and the Jurisprudential Inquiry, value reasoning, and discussion of controversial issues, while digital media support the learning activities. These three components can be integrated into a comprehensive learning management model, which includes the selection of literary content, assessment and evaluation strategies, supportive learning factors, to ensure effective and goal-oriented instruction in Thai literature.

New Public Governance for Developing Local Products of Chang Noi Community to the Market

Pakamat Leangthanarerk — 2025-09-29

The objectives of this research were to: (1) examine the roles of stakeholders in the co-production of community products in Chang Noi Subdistrict through the New Public Governance (NPG); and (2) study the processes involved in developing community products for market distribution. The research questions focus on extracting participatory process approaches concerning the roles of stakeholders and the co-development of community products for the market. The study employed qualitative research methods through in-depth interviews and participant observation. A total of 29 key informants were purposively selected, including: (1) government representatives (university), (2) Chang Noi Subdistrict community, (3) The Special Education Center of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Bang Sai District Unit, (4) representatives from Bang Sai Subdistrict community (a neighboring community), and (5) representatives from Wat Anukunchararam (Chang Noi Temple). Data were analyzed through descriptive narrative synthesis.
The results reveal that:
1. The role of stakeholders in driving community products to market began with the public sector, which initiated the product development project within the community and took on responsibilities such as coordination, implementation, and product distribution. In addition, various sectors participated by sharing knowledge and exchanging ideas, as well as providing spaces for discussion that fostered collective engagement within the community. Key stakeholder networks included representatives from the Chang Noi Subdistrict community, the neighboring Bang Sai Subdistrict community, the Special Education Center, and Wat Anukunchararam (Chang Noi Temple).
2. The process of developing community products for market distribution involved enhancing the value of local eggs by packaging them in woven bamboo baskets (Chalom) made by the community. The implementation began with a collaborative planning and design phase, which included incorporating the Chalom craft to add value to the product. This was followed by the development and production of the items, joint calculations of production costs and selling prices, and the organization of revenue collection based on the community’s product sales.

Management to Increase the Quality of Service of the Elderly Care Business in the Central Region

Prad Jirachottrakul — 2025-09-29

This research aimed to study 1) the service quality of elderly care businesses in Central Thailand, classified by factors such as the type of establishment, and 2) the management of elderly care businesses that affected the service quality of elderly care businesses in Central Thailand. This is a quantitative study using a questionnaire with 217 respondents. The statistics used for data analysis included mean, standard deviation, one-way ANOVA, and multiple regression analysis.
The results were that:
1. The service quality of elderly care businesses in terms of health and environmental conditions showed significant differences when classified by the type of establishment, business model, and the number of staff at the .01 and .05 significance levels. Regarding the service quality of elderly care businesses in terms of buildings and rooms, significant differences were found when classified by the size of the establishment (based on the number of elderly people cared for) at the .05 significance level.
2. The management of elderly care businesses that affects the service quality of elderly care businesses overall accounted for 54.00% (Adj. R² = .540) with statistical significance at the .01 level. The factors that had the most significant influence were controlling (Beta = .247, Sig. = .000) and organizing (Beta = .240, Sig. = .001), both of which showed a positive impact at the .01 significance level, while other factors did not show statistical significance.

Development Wisdom and Strengthening the Honest Values of The Buddhist Way to Youth of The Social Organizations, Nakhon Pathom Province

Kanjira Wijitwatchararak — 2025-09-30

This research study aims to: (1) analyze the situation and understanding of corruption among youth, (2) design activities to enhance critical thinking and promote Buddhist ethical values of integrity among youth through social organizations, and (3) collaboratively develop intelligence and promote these values through community engagement. A mixed-methods research approach was employed. For the quantitative phase, 318 youth participants were sampled, and data were analyzed using mean, standard deviation, and multiple linear regression. The qualitative phase included 21 in-depth interviews and 12 expert consultations, with content analysis techniques applied to provide contextual understanding.
The research findings were as follows:
1. Situation and understanding of corruption among youth 1. Youth understanding of corruption was generally high ( = 3.75). 2. Factors related to preventing corruption among youth were also rated high ( = 3.73). 3. Ethical behavior was reported at a high level ( = 3.74). 4. Multiple linear regression identified the following factors as significantly associated with promoting Buddhist ethical values and ethical behavior in combating youth corruption in Nakhon Pathom: perception of corruption’s harm (X₁, ß = .298), social participation (X₄, ß = .197), shared vision (X₂, ß = .196), mutual benefits (X₃, ß = .192), mutual reinforcement (X₅, ß = .177), and interaction (X₇, ß = .048), all showing a statistically significant linear relationship with the dependent variable (F = 5378.436, p < .001).
2. Results from designing activities to enhance integrity and intelligence. 1. Activities promoting integrity by relevant agencies in Nakhon Pathom were organized into five key areas. 2. Proposed solutions and developmental strategies to foster youth integrity values were also categorized into five sections.

Influence of Debt Behavior and Management on the Debt Burden of Members of the Saraburi Hospital Savings Cooperative

Somsiri Pansaksiri — 2025-09-30

This study aimed to examine the factors influencing the debt burden of members of the Saraburi Hospital Savings Cooperative using multiple regression analysis. The dependent variable was the debt burden of cooperative members, while the independent variables included personal factors, basic needs related to consumption, utilities, housing, healthcare, education, and social activities, along with personal values, investment behavior, and debt management approaches. The sample consisted of 342 members.
The results revealed that: The majority of cooperative members were female, aged between 41 and 50 years (38.9%). In terms of education, 82.5% had completed a bachelor’s degree. Regarding income, 13.5% earned between 50,001 and 55,000 baht per month. Most members (26.7%) had debts not exceeding 400,000 baht, while 26.3% reported having no debt. With respect to debt incurrence and management behaviors, members exhibited moderate levels of needs related to consumption, utilities, housing, and healthcare. For other needs, members consistently demonstrated spending behaviors influenced by personal values. Factors found to significantly affect the debt burden, at a statistically significant level, included being aged 21-30 years (B = -6.13, p = 0.015), holding a bachelor’s degree (B = 7.16, p = 0.005), consumption needs (B = 3.49, p = 0.015), housing needs (B = 4.19, p = 0.000), and educational needs (B = 3.35, p = 0.000). The regression model explained 47.3% of the variance in debt burden (R² = 0.473). These findings indicate that a considerable portion of debt arises from investments in quality of life rather than from extravagant consumption. This reflects a positive outlook on self-investment, aiming to generate long-term returns, which can be applied in personal financial planning and in the formulation of effective credit policies for the cooperative.