Guidelines for Reducing and Quitting Smoking According to Buddhist Principles: Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University Chiang Mai Campus

Abstract

The objectives of this qualitative research article were to: 1) study the causes of smoking among students at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU), Chiang Mai Campus, and 2) propose guidelines for reducing and quitting smoking based on Buddhist principles for MCU students at the Chiang Mai Campus to the public. Data collection was carried out using secondary data through a literature review related to the causes and factors of smoking. Additionally, the process included focus group discussions and in-depth interviews about the guidelines for reducing and quitting smoking with five administrators, teachers, and staff, as well as 18 MCU students. The data was analyzed using descriptive content analysis.

The study results were divided into two issues: 1) the concepts of the causes of smoking among MCU Chiang Mai Campus students, which included imitation, the desire to try, peer influence, social activities, and cultural traditions in some communities; and 2) the proposed guidelines for reducing and quitting smoking according to Buddhist principles for MCU Chiang Mai Campus students and the public. The findings indicated that Buddhism could be utilized for the development of the body, precepts, mind, and wisdom. This included: 1) physical development through proper training of the five senses, virtuous actions, and fostering a harmonious relationship with the physical environment; 2) moral development by fostering beneficial relationships within the social environment and promoting cooperation with others; 3) mental development aimed at cultivating virtuous qualities such as tranquility, peace, and radiance through mindfulness practices; and 4) wisdom development through the cultivation of knowledge, understanding, and problem-solving skills, using wisdom as a guiding principle for a fulfilling life. These study results provide a guideline for other educational institutions to apply Buddhist principles in developing effective programs for students to reduce and quit smoking.