CULTURAL DEVELOPMENT TOWARDS COMMUNITY STRENGTH: A CASE STUDY OF BAN NON HOM COMMUNITY, SAKON NAKHON, THAILAND

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to explore the participation of cultural characteristics and the pattern of community development of the Non Hom community in Sakon Nakhon, Thailand. The study was qualitative, employing in-depth interviews to collect data from the sample group along with non-participant observation. Data were analyzed using content analysis, logical reasoning analysis, and inductive reasoning. The findings revealed that the Non Hom Subdistrict community is a Thai ethnic community that firmly preserves its cultural heritage, including language, dress, traditions, rituals, beliefs, and local wisdom. Challenges and adaptations in community development may arise in certain situations. Community development begins with a review of past strategies and a focus on preserving Thai culture through the institutions of family, education, and religious participation. The community development plan has emphasized community collaboration and learning, in addition to promoting self-reliance and participation as the way of life of the community. The collaborative partnership aims to enhance community members' learning, problem-solving, and improve community well-being through understanding community context and adaptation to achieve balanced development through community participation.