Piyarom Bunnag. The Development Process of Couples Mental Health Through a Mindfulness-Based Course: A Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation, Bang Pa-In District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. ปริญญาเอก(สาขาวิชาสันติศึกษา). มหาวิทยาลัยมหาจุฬาลงกรณราชวิทยาลัย. หอสมุดกลาง. : มหาวิทยาลัยมหาจุฬาลงกรณราชวิทยาลัย, 2024.
The Development Process of Couples Mental Health Through a Mindfulness-Based Course: A Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation, Bang Pa-In District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya
Abstract:
This research has three objectives: 1) to assess the baseline mental health and relational challenges of couples, 2) to examine the process of couples mental health through the Mindfulness Wisdom and Loving-Kindness (MWL) course according to Buddhamahametta Foundation, Bang Pa-In District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya. 3) to develop the process of couples mental health through MWL course. This mixed-methods study employed a pre-test, post-test design with three groups of nine couples based on their mindfulness engagement. Data were collected from eighteen participants (nine couples) at the Buddhamahametta Foundation. The MWL course consisted of two cycles, delivered with a one-month interval between cycles. The research tools included the Thai Mental Health Indicator (TMHI-15) and the Revised Dyadic Adjustment Scale (RDAS) for quantitative data at three timepoints, and in-depth interviews for qualitative insights. Statistical analysis involved descriptive and inferential statistics (paired t-tests, ANOVA) for quantitative data, and thematic analysis for qualitative data.
The results of the research found that: 1) At the baseline, couples who practiced mindfulness together appeared to have better mental well-being and relationship quality compared to those with only one or no practicing partner, although these differences were not statistically significant. Interviews revealed a heightened mindfulness awareness in co-practicing couples, contrasting with reports of imbalances in other couples. 2) Participants across all groups showed overall improvement in mental health with each MWL course cycle. While relationship quality remained relatively stable, co-practicing couples consistently reported higher satisfaction. 3) The MWL course demonstrated potential in enhancing mental health and fostering supportive communication. The MWL model combines four activities (deeper reflection, present-moment awareness, loving-kindness meditation, mindful listening) and cultural elements (Dhamma teachings, Dharma music). Dual mechanisms enhance individual well-being (emotional regulation, stress reduction) and relational harmony (communication, empathy). Mutual practice creates reciprocity: personal resilience strengthens relationships, amplifying mental health. A scalable, culturally grounded framework for couples therapy and community programs.