Happiness among Thai people: living a virtuous life spirituality and self-esteem

Abstract

Objectives The objective of this study was to explore the level of happiness and factors affecting happiness among Thai people.

Materials and Methods  The  survey of social and cultural situation and mental health was carried out in October 2008 by stratified two - stage sampling. There were 26,520 sample households. Population aged 15 years and over were interviewed.  Binary logistic regression was used to explore factors affecting happiness. The dependent variable was categorized into more happiness or less happiness. The independent variables included living a virtuous life, spirituality and self-esteem. The controlling factors were sex, age, marital status, education, occupation, economic status and place of residence.

Results The sample population consisted of 25,324 Buddhists. The proportion of  females was higher than males. The highest proportions were those in the working ages (25-59 years), currently married, completed primary education, engaged in the agricultural sector, in fairly low economic status and lived in rural area.  About 81.6 percent of population were in the more happiness category. Controlling for demographic and socioeconomic factors, the results showed that concerning living a virtuous life, people were happier when they practiced all 5 precepts regularly, meditated in religious days and perceived themselves more religiosity. Concerning spiritual dimension, those who practiced more on giving a chance to others before self, felt happy more often when helping others, made more donation and with higher self-esteem were more likely to be happier.

Conclusion The study found that 81.6 percent of the population were in the more happiness category. Living a virtuous life, spirituality and self-esteem were significant factors affecting happiness among these people.