Abstract

The purposes of this thesis were to examine 1) the history of Banpham Buddhist Youth Group and Trisikkha principles in Theravada Buddhism, 2) the application of Trisikkha principles in the activities of Banpham Buddhist Youth Group, and 3) the results of applying Trisikkha principles in daily life of the Banpham Buddhist Youth Group.

Results showed that Banpham Buddhist Youth Group in Amphoe Muaengsuang, Changwat Roi-Et was established in 1960; its purposes were to make youths realize the significance of Buddhism, instill moral and cultural values in the heart and mind of the youths, provide them with opportunities to do social and charitable activities, allow them to learn more about Buddhist rites and rituals in order to lead their lives in accordance with the Buddhist teachings.

By applying the Trisikkha principles in the Banpham Buddhist Youth Group activities related to the following categories: tradition, community, and religion, various activities were held to introduce the youths to the community, give them chances to learn about the community, and do volunteering work that benefits the community. As a result, the participants could take part and follow the community rules and regulations accurately and properly.

The results of applying Trisikkha principles in the activities by Banpham Buddhist Youth Group showed that they have become well-mannered, more reasonable, more public-minded, more polite, more humble, and more obedient toward their parents, elder people, and Buddhist monks. They also have become more cooperative, less selfish, less aggressive, more responsible. Besides, they have had better understanding of Buddhist rites and rituals. On the contrary, the youths who did not participate in the activities did not learn anything new, could not develop themselves physically and mentally, were unable to express themselves well or show any creative ideas and work, did not understand Buddhist rites and rituals, and have become self-indulgent and burden of the family and community.