Factors Influencing Voter Behavior in the Election of the Mayor and Members of the Local Administrative Organization: A Case Study of Inthaplang Subdistrict Administration, Wanon Niwat District, Sakon Nakhon Province.

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the factors influencing the behavior of voting for the mayor and local council members, 2) compare the factors influencing voting behavior for the mayor and local council members based on personal factors, and 3) propose ways to apply the principles of Apiratanism to develop voting behavior. This is a mixed-methods research study. The sample consists of 358 eligible voters aged 18 years and older, and 9 key informants. The research instruments include a questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Statistical analysis methods include percentage, mean, standard deviation, hypothesis testing through t-test, and qualitative analysis using descriptive interpretation.
The research findings are as follows:
1. The factors influencing voting behavior for the mayor and local council members overall are at a moderate level. The ranking of mean scores from highest to lowest is: qualifications of candidates, policies, influential individuals, and election campaign efforts.
2. When comparing factors influencing voting behavior based on gender, age, education, and occupation, the results showed significant statistical differences at the 0.05 level.
3. The application of Apiratanism principles to develop voting behavior includes: 1) Regular meetings to allow public participation in brainstorming, 2) Collective meeting readiness to cultivate discipline and patience, 3) No arbitrary amendments or dismissals of resolutions, 4) Respecting the authority of leaders to ensure organizational efficiency, 5) Honoring and protecting women's rights, 6) Promoting and preserving good cultural traditions, and 7) Ensuring protection and safety in carrying out duties based on democratic principles.