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Published on January 7th, Bangkok Post

Survey highlights worrying attitudes

Aphaluck Bhatiasevi

Many children are unhappy at having to go to school and feel that wealth is the surest way to happiness, according to a survey.

The Thai Health Promotion Foundation drew the conclusion from a poll of 634 boys and 872 girls aged 12-18 at schools in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Ubon Ratchathani and Songkhla.

Slightly more than 42% said they were unhappy with school, about 15% were dissatisfied with their friends and 13% with their family.

Nearly 14% said wealth was their highest priority in finding happiness, while 11% gave more importance to family unity. Only 10% put intelligence and good marks at school on the top of their list.

Dr Panpimol Lotrakul, mental health expert at the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, said the poll reflected the deteriorating attitude of teenagers.

The fact so many felt unhappy about going to school reflected the declining popularity of the education system. She hoped education reform would reverse the trend by encouraging learning and creativity.

Deputy Prime Minister Chaturon Chaisaeng said it was apparent the education system was placing stress on students.

He hoped promotion of regular exercise, sport and creativity in schools would change their attitudes.

Dr Panpimol said it was disturbing that children were falling prey to materialism, and associated happiness with wealth.

``It is important to differentiate between entertainment and happiness,'' she said. ``The increasing popularity of entertainment places shows that most people think happiness can be obtained by spending more money.''

The poll, part of a national survey to mark National Children's Day this Saturday, also showed that 70% felt good about their life in general and were happy.

Dr Panpimol said it was important to promote the social values and happiness associated with love and the joy of making others happy.

She hoped children's attitudes would change for the better by a strengthening of family institutions.

To celebrate National Children's day on Jan 11, the foundation will hold health forums for young people in Chiang Mai, Ubon Ratchathani, Songkhla and Bangkok.

Mr Chaturon said the forum would feature exhibitions and activities designed out of creativity of the youth in various provinces. It would help reinforce policy and coordination of health activities for the young.