Translating Buddhist mindfulness into action: engaging older Thai adults in participatory action research
ISSN: 1443-9883
Article publication date: 19 January 2024
Issue publication date: 20 March 2024
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to illustrate and discuss the application of mindfulness practices rooted in Buddhism as the methodological praxis in implementing participatory action research (PAR) projects with older Thai adults.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper draws on the researchers' reflexive accounts of participatory action conducted with older Thai participants in a series of four PAR projects in the five senior schools located in the northern, southern, northeastern and central regions of Thailand.
Findings
The paper demonstrates the translation of Buddhist mindfulness into a PAR methodological approach and shares actual practices of mindfulness in each stage of the research process.
Originality/value
This paper provides practical implications for researchers to incorporate the mindfulness methodology to unlock presuppositions and attachments to pre-existing PAR frameworks and open new ways of knowing that emerge out of the lived experience at the present contextual moment.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors would like to extend their sincere thanks to Kwanjit Sasiwongsaroj, another member of the research team, for the consistent contribution to mindful reflections throughout the projects.
Funding: The authors are grateful to the Thai Health Promotion Foundation for funding the research team, over the past five years.
Citation
Doungphummes, N., Bhibulbhanuvat, S. and Boonrugsa, T. (2024), "Translating Buddhist mindfulness into action: engaging older Thai adults in participatory action research", Qualitative Research Journal, Vol. 24 No. 2, pp. 183-193. https://doi.org/10.1108/QRJ-11-2023-0178
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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