GUIDELINES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF QUALITY OF LIFE ACCORDING TO THE THREEFOLD TRAINING OF PRISONNERS IN NAN PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article has three objectives: 1) to study the threefold training principle in Theravãda Buddhism scripture; 2) to study the problems condition in the quality of Life development of prisoners in Nan Provincial prison, and 3) to study guidelines of the quality of life development on Sīla aspect, Smādhi aspect and Paññā aspect according to the Threefold training principle of prisoners in Nan provincial prison.

This research was a qualitative research which was mainly conducted by the documentary analysis as well as observations and in-depth interviews. The key informants included the forty-five officers and prisoners in the prison.

The study revealed that Threefold Training principle in Theravãda Buddhism has consisted of Sĩla – morality, Samãdhi - concentration, and Paññã – wisdom; it is the integrated principle for learning and practicing in order to train the bodily and verbal actions, as well as to enhance mental and intellectual capabilities. As a result, it leads to the development of quality of life both in the individual and social dimensions.

Regarding the problems in developing the quality of life of prisoners in Nan provincial prison, it was found that most prisoners had less development in their behaviors with especially reference to the lack of discipline, minds with anxiety and worry, and wisdom aspect especially the knowledge that was necessary for a good livelihood. Furthermore, there are some problems regarding on the outside as less prison staffs for suitable activities orange, there were a few officers and many duties for working and necessary trainings for the staffs to cope with advances in technology in the disruptive age.

For the guidelines of the quality of life development according to the Threefold training principle of prisoners in Nan provincial prison, It was found that there were activities conducted for developing the behaviors with Sĩla through various activities for training the discipline, developing the minds according to Samãdhi through practicing meditation with focus on the Saggasã-Samãdhi program, and developing intellects through the due courses as to promote knowledge for daily living and understanding the truth.