Guidelines for strengthening true friends based on The six Directions for Middle school students in Singburi

Abstract

This qualitative study aimed: (1) to study the cultivation of Kalyãṇamitta (good friendship) based on Buddhist principles, (2) to study activities that promote Kalyãṇamitta among lower secondary school students in Sing Buri Province, and (3) to propose guidelines for fostering Kalyãṇamitta according to the principle of the Cha Disã (Six Directions). The research employed a qualitative design, beginning with a review of relevant documents to develop interview questions, followed by fieldwork using in-depth interviews with four target groups totaling 25 participants: five teachers, five parents, ten students, and five Buddhist scholars. Data were analyzed through descriptive analysis.

The findings showed that (1) cultivating Kalyãṇamitta in Buddhism begins with the presence of a guiding figure who provides correct and virtuous direction in both worldly and spiritual aspects. In essence, a Kalyãṇamitta is not merely a good friend but a person who leads others toward mental, behavioral, and social development, (2) activities that promote Kalyãṇamitta include Scout and Girl Guide camps, “senior caring for junior” activities, peer-support projects, and Buddhist