The Development of Students’ Social Skills Behavior based on The Four Brahmavihara: A Case Study of Grade 12 Students at Phatongprathankhiriwat School, Hatyai District, Songkhla Province

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) study the development of students' social skills 2) study the Four Brahmavihara in Theravada Buddhism 3) analyze the development of students' social skills using the Four Brahmavihara: a case study of Grade 12 students at Patongprathankiriwat School, Hat Yai District, Songkhla Province. This qualitative research involved in-depth interviews with 22 informants, including homeroom teachers, subject teachers, guidance counselors, students, and parents, along with research from the Tripitaka, other Buddhist texts, and other research papers. The research instrument was a structured in-depth interview questionnaire. Data was analyzed using content analysis. The findings revealed that: 1) The development of students' social skills focuses on promoting the ability to coexist appropriately with others, encompassing five areas: communication, interpersonal relationships, conflict resolution, emotional and behavioral control, and adaptation. The school implemented concrete learning activities such as group work, discussions, and volunteer activities, providing students with opportunities to practice communication, listening, and collaborative problem-solving, resulting in improved co-existence behaviors. 2) Regarding the Four Brahmavihara, they form a crucial foundation for social behavior development. Metta (loving-kindness) promotes constructive communication; Karuna (compassion) develops empathy; Mudita (sympathetic joy) cultivates a positive attitude towards the success of others. And equanimity helps in controlling emotions and maintaining appropriate neutrality. 3) Integrating the Four Brahmavihara into learning activities helps students exhibit more appropriate behaviors, such as helping each other, listening, forgiving, and self-control. The classroom atmosphere therefore becomes more cooperative and understanding, reflecting that practicing the Four Brahmavihara can concretely promote social skills and desirable characteristics in learners.