การพัฒนางานสาธารณสงเคราะห์ของวัดในอำเภอบ้านคา จังหวัดราชบุรี

        The objectives of this research were: (1) to study the level of development of public welfare of temples at Ban Kha District in Ratchaburi Province; (2) to compare the development of public welfare of temples in Ban Kha District, Ratchaburi Province, classified by personal factors; and (3) to study the problems, obstacles, and suggestions regarding the development of public welfare of temples at Ban Kha District in Ratchaburi Province. This study employed a mixed-methods research design. For the quantitative research, data were collected via questionnaires from 390 residents in Ban Kha District, Ratchaburi Province. The data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation. Hypotheses were tested using F-test (One-way Analysis of Variance: ANOVA). For the qualitative research, the study used documentary analysis and interviews with 9 key informants. The data were analyzed using contextual content analysis.

      The findings of the research were as follows:

      1. The overall level of public welfare development of temples at Ban Kha District in Ratchaburi Province, was found to be at a high level (x= 3.51). When considering each aspect individually, the area with the highest mean was supporting others' activities for public benefit, which was at a high level (x= 3.58). This was followed by supporting the public and living beings, also at a high level (x= 3.57). The aspect with the lowest mean was conducting supportive and charitable activities, which was at a moderate level (x= 3.45).

       2. The comparison of the development of public welfare of temples at Ban Kha District in Ratchaburi Province, classified by personal factors, revealed that people with different genders, levels of education, and monthly incomes showed no significant difference. However, people with different ages and occupations exhibited statistically significant differences at the 0.05 level.

      3. Problems and obstacles, it was found that Buddhist monks and temples lack the promotion of public participation in teaching and guiding the people to perform good deeds, speak well, and think positively according to Buddhist principles. Suggestions included: Buddhist monks and temples should support and collaborate with all relevant agencies involved in public welfare. This cooperation aims to improve the people's quality of life and promote happiness based on Buddhist teachings.