The research entitled “Buddhadhamma factors affecting mental strength for rehabilitation of drug addicts” consisted of two objectives. The study aimed: 1) to study mental strength of drug addicts according to the Buddhist psychology towards the denial of drugs and 2) to study factors affecting mental strength of drug addicts according to Buddhist psychology towards the denial of drugs. The research sample was 299 persons who were under probation in the Bangkok probation office 3 (Thonburi Civil Court). Statistics used were frequency, percentage, mean, S.D. standard deviation, Chi-square, One-way ANOVA and t-test with a statistical significance of .05.

From the study, it was found that, those who were under probation had Buddhamma factors in both society and mind were at high levels with an average of 3.80 and 3.74 respectively. Those who were under probation with mental strength towards the denial of drugs was at high level with an average of 3.61. When considered in each component of the mental strength according to the Buddhadhamma, it was found that the mind development according to principle of Trisikkhà (the Threefold Training), the determination in rehabilitation through self-regulation and the cultivation of Mettà (loving-kindness) according to the principle of Brahmavihàra (holy abidings) were at high levels with an average of 3.76, 3.50 and 3.63 respectively. Those who were under probation had a positive feedback with mental strength towards the denial of drugs was at high level with an average of 1.02. When considered factors that affected  the mental strength, it was found that self-confidence and determination for the future were at the highest levels with an average of .79 while mental health had an average of .65. The mental strength of those who were under probation towards the denial of drugs, when considered from 3 aspects namely, mind development, determination in rehabilitation from drugs and loving-kindness, were at high levels with an average of .79, .68 and .73 respectively.

          As a whole, factors affecting recidivism of drug addicted prisoners, most of them were employers working in the company, factory, construction, restaurants or hotels etc. with a salary between 5,000 – 10,000 baht. Most of their parents lived together and without any involvement in the crime. Most of them lived with their parents residing in the municipality in the slum area. Cause of the use of drugs was from the desire to try out. The reasons that they were unable to stop the use of drugs were because they’re necessary for their work although they were aware that drugs could ruin their future and they had an effect on body and mind. Also, the reasons of recidivism were because of no job and having financial problems. Way to prevent and resolve the problems of recidivism of drug addicted prisoners was the assurance of job opportunity after finishing their legal punishment in order to have income to take care of themselves and their family and also to get social acceptance and second chance again.

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