A A Study of Sangha Role in Community Well-being Development at Hadyai Distric, Songkhla Province

Abstract

This research aims as follows: 1) to study the concept and theory of community health development; 2) to study the role of monks in community health development in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province; and 3) to analyze the role of monks in community health development in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. This research is a qualitative research, selecting specific samples: a group of monks who have undergone training, a group of monks, a group of community leaders, and public health officers from the government sector in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province who play a role in community health in the area and agree to cooperate in this research. The in-depth interview tool used in the research has been approved for human research ethics. The total sample group used in this qualitative research is 16 monks/people. The research tool used is a structured in-depth interview, and the data is analyzed using content analysis. The results of the research found that 1) community health development is when the community has better overall health characteristics, i.e. physical, mental, social, and intellectual health, covering all 4 dimensions. 2) monks in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province have recognized the importance of community health from the past to the present. By using the teachings and practices from Dharma, including the resolutions of various sangha groups, to apply to the community to create tangible and sustainable happiness. 3) Monks in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province have played a role in developing community health in Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. The monks themselves have developed knowledge and roles in health in developing community health according to the guidelines of the National Monk Health Charter, supporting the community with cooperation from various sectors, which has been clearly evident at present and will continue into the future.