BUDDHA-DHAMMA APPLICATION FOR ENHANCING COMMUNITY NETWORK PARTICIPATION IN REDUCING RECIDIVISM OF NAKHON RATCHASIMA CENTRAL PRISON INMATES

Abstract

The objectives of this research article are: 1) to examine the level of participation by community networks in reducing recidivism among inmates at the Nakhon Ratchasima Central Prison; 2) to compare the participation of these community networks based on personal demographic factors; and 3) to propose the application of Buddhist principles to foster community network involvement in reducing recidivism among inmates at the Nakhon Ratchasima Central Prison. This study employs a mixed-methods approach. The quantitative component utilizes a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.908, administered to a sample of 397 individuals. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, with hypotheses tested via one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA). The qualitative component consists of interviews with 9 key informants. The research findings indicate that: 1) the overall level of community network participation in reducing recidivism among inmates at the Nakhon Ratchasima Central Prison is high; and 2) the comparison of community network participation based on personal demographic factors reveals no significant differences in perspectives among individuals of varying genders, ages, educational backgrounds, occupations, or monthly income levels. Therefore, research hypothesis 3 is rejected. The application of Buddhist principles to foster the participation of community networks in reducing recidivism among inmates at the Nakhon Ratchasima Central Prison is based on the *Aparihaniyadhamma 7* (seven conditions for non-decline): 1) holding regular meetings; 2) assembling and dispersing in unity; 3) adhering to established rules and regulations; 4) showing respect for elders; 5) refraining from the oppression of subordinates; 6) honoring and respecting sacred sites or objects of veneration; and 7) actively supporting and encouraging individuals who conduct themselves virtuously.