Saowalak Langgapin. Development of buddhist-based mental health counseling program led by monks for Thai older adults. Doctoral Degree(). Chiang Mai University. Library. : Chiang Mai University, 2024.
Development of buddhist-based mental health counseling program led by monks for Thai older adults
Abstract:
This study addresses the pressing need for mental health support within aging Thai Buddhist communities, where existing programs often overlook this issue. Leveraging the revered status of Buddhist monks, this study aims to develop the Buddhist-based mental health counseling program led by monks for Thai older adults. It involves understanding the current context, designing and evaluating the program quality, and assessing its effectiveness and feasibility. The study follows a three-phase research and development framework. Phase 1 Studying Current Situations and Requirements: involved qualitative interviews with health volunteer monks and older adults to grasp current situations and requirements. The thematic analysis unearthed key insights. Phase 2 Program Developing and Testing: focused on program development and testing, blending Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and Buddhist mindfulness principles. Expert and stakeholder validation and pilot testing refined the program. Phase 3 Evaluation and Monitoring: employed a quasi-experimental approach to evaluate effectiveness and feasibility, with monks implementing the program and gathering feedback from monks and older adults for further refinement. The study found that Phase 1 identified three main themes in older adults' mental health challenges: distress, determinants, and existing interventions. Monks' counseling requirements, including training needs and supportive systems, were highlighted, while older adults emphasized trust, expertise, and a friendly approach. Phase 2 produced the Buddhist-based mental health counseling program, yielding the MPS-MAV-PI process and C-TIME strategy, along with a program and training manuals. Phase 3's comprehensive evaluation demonstrated significant improvements in effectiveness, supported by moderate effect sizes and high feasibility ratings. Valuable feedback from monks and older adults was collected throughout this phase. This study illuminates culturally sensitive mental health interventions within Buddhist communities, underscoring the crucial role of monks in older adults mental health. Integrating monk-led counseling into existing community services, collaborating with healthcare and religious institutions, and enhancing the monks' training with curricula are recommended. Additionally, promoting mental health literacy and establishing regular evaluation mechanisms for ongoing program improvement is crucial.