Author: Sakesun Siriphadung (Independent Researcher) and Michael Christopher (Pacific University)

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ABSTRACT

In this cross-sectional study, we examined sociodemographic predictors of engagement in Buddhist religious practices among Thai adolescents and young adults aged 15-32 years old. The nationally representative sample was drawn from the 2018 dataset of the survey on Social Conditions, Culture and Mental Health conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand (NSO). Results indicate that individual (age, gender, educational attainment, occupation), family (relationship to household head), and community contextual (urbanicity, region) variables were significantly associated with Buddhist religiosity. Overall, the findings suggest that these sociodemographic factors play an important role in determining to what extent Thai youth and young adults adhere to Buddhist practices. Given the growing evidence base for the beneficial health effects of Buddhist practices, further examination of sociodemographic predictors in an effort to promote Buddhist religiosity among Thai young adults is warranted.