This investigation presented problems, lifestyles, and changed relationships of residents in the Pga K’nyau communities, where young people are not aware of their traditional wisdom but lead a life of modern society. Thus, a relationship revitalization process through a cultural exchange of the ethnic group at the study area was conducted (p. 8). The participants involved in this case study were from 12 communities in Tambon Ban Chan, Mae Chaem District, including Wat Chan, Nong Daeng, Huay Hom, Pong Khao, Ban Den, Nong Jet Nuay, Huay Bong, Chaem Noi, Huay Or, Huay Khrok, Doi Tung, and San Muang (p. 28). This investigation focused on an analysis of the ethnic teachings, proverbs, sayings, taboos, and practices in comparison with those of Buddhism and mainstream culture. These issues were discussed at the cultural exchange forum through a ritual medium, called “itinerant merit making”, in an attempt to revitalize inter-generational and inter-community relationships as well as the relationship between the temples and communities (pp. 3, 5). The authors belonged to the Itinerant Dharma Group, organizing 21 merit-making activities from February 13, 2003 to December 26, 2004 (pp. 128-129), by holding cultural talks after participating in religious activities (p. 165). These activities utilized the participatory action research method to illustrate how to revitalize the relationships through cultural exchange forums and opinion expressions without generational restrictions (p. 164). The results of the activities brought about a campaign to wear traditional dress, abstain from involving in social vices, and revitalize certain traditions, such as a custom of inviting visitors to eat together, a cultural expression of close relationships among community members. The participatory action research method has brought about guidelines and methods of collective community development and the maintenance of the ethnic identity.
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