SWOT Analysis of Using Buddhism in Psychiatric Treatment of Thai Psychiatrists

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Objective: To study the attitude of Thai psychiatrists towards using Buddhism in psychiatric treatment by SWOT analysis technique.

Method: A descriptive study with purposive sampling (snowball technique) was used to recruit 22 Thai psychiatrists, who use Buddhism in clinical practice both in Bangkok and in other provinces. Data were collected by using in-depth interview and then analyzed by using the SWOT analysis method.

Results: Most psychiatrists found that the strength of using Buddhism with psychiatric treatment is the basis former of faith in Thai people toward Buddhism, which enable psychiatrists to connect with the patients and make them understand more easier. In term of weakness, most psychiatrists agreed that if therapists don’t have a true understanding about concept of Buddhism this will cause the problem when adapting in to actual treatment. Most think that concept of Buddhism can be developed to Buddhist psychotherapy at the academic level. Nevertheless, the language of this religion (Bali) is the main obstacle for people to understand and study more about the topic. Moreover, there is no clear direction or standard textbook for applying Buddhism Psychotherapy to the patients.

Conclusion: The concept of Buddhism in psychiatric treatment benefits the patients. The concept can be used with treating the patients, and also benefit to self-development of therapists.