Nattaya Waewsawat. The Development Process for the Cultivation of Peace and Happiness of Special Needs Children and Families by Buddhist Peaceful Means: Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation. ปริญญาเอก(สาขาวิชาสันติศึกษา). มหาวิทยาลัยมหาจุฬาลงกรณราชวิทยาลัย. หอสมุดกลาง. : มหาวิทยาลัยมหาจุฬาลงกรณราชวิทยาลัย, 2024.
The Development Process for the Cultivation of Peace and Happiness of Special Needs Children and Families by Buddhist Peaceful Means: Case Study of Buddhamahametta Foundation
Abstract:
This dissertation rigorously examines the developmental processes aimed at fostering peace and happiness among children with special needs and their families through Buddhist methodologies, specifically employing the Buddhamahametta Foundation as a focal case study. The primary objectives of this study are: 1) to study the difficulties and obstacles experienced by families caring and scientific knowledge for parenting of special needs children, 2) to study the family caring aims to happiness and the meditation courses for the families based on Buddhist scripture, and 3) to develop a process for cultivating peace and happiness based on Buddhist peaceful means. This research employed a qualitative research design. Data were collected through documentary analysis, in-depth interviews with 21 families of children with special needs, participatory and non-participatory observations, and focus group discussions with 10 experts, including Buddhist monks, medical professionals, and educators. These diverse methods allowed for comprehensive exploration and triangulation of findings.
The findings related to the first objective reveal that families caring for children with special needs experience significant social isolation, financial constraints, and emotional distress. Many caregivers struggle with managing daily responsibilities, accessing adequate support systems, and coping with the emotional strain of caregiving. The study highlights that despite these challenges, families with strong community support and access to educational resources demonstrate greater resilience and emotional stability.
Regarding the second objective, the study finds that the application of Buddhist teachings, particularly mindfulness and compassion-based meditation practices, significantly improves the emotional well-being of caregivers. Meditation practices help reduce stress, promote patience, and strengthen family relationships. Participants report enhanced emotional regulation, improved coping mechanisms, and greater acceptance of their caregiving roles as a result of these spiritual practices.
For the third objective, the research articulates a comprehensive framework that synthesizes Buddhist principles of peaceful methodologies into conventional caregiving practices. This framework encompasses systematically organized meditation sessions, mindfulness exercises, and activities aimed at community engagement. The findings indicate that the integration of these practices into familial routines cultivates a tranquil home environment, fortifies emotional bonds, and ultimately enhances the overall peace and happiness of children with special needs alongside their caregivers. The study emphasizes the critical significance of embedding Buddhist principles into caregiving strategies to promote well-being and resilience within these familial units.