The results of promoting Islamic ethics in adherence to the faith among Muslim youth in Ban Kha Ling, Phithen sub-district, Thung Yang Daeng district, Pattani province

Abstract

This study explored the results of promoting Islamic ethics in adherence to the faith among Muslim youth of Ban Kha Ling, Phithen sub-district, Thung Yang Daeng district, Pattani province, Thailand. Data were collected from 50 youths, 25 of whom had low scores in the Islamic ethics test and they were placed in the experimental group, while the other 25 with higher scores in the test were placed in the control group. The experimental group participated in an Islamic ethics promotion program to be socialized in the faith while the control group participated in religious activities organized by the community using a true control group pretest-posttest design. The subjects were selected using purposive sampling and the data were analyzed using the mean, standard deviation, and paired sample and independent t-tests. Additional data were collected from a focus group discussion with 10 representatives from separate groups of religious leaders, local leaders, core youth leaders, and parents or guardians, totaling 40 informants. Content analysis was performed using logical comparisons of concepts, theories, and research reports along with the context. The results of the study revealed that before the experiment, the youths in the control group had significantly higher scores than those in the experimental group. However, after the experiment, the experimental group had significantly higher scores than the control group. Youths in the experimental group improved in their behavior; they placed greater importance on Islamic ethics regarding adherence to the faith and realized such importance at a higher level that could be seen from their refraining from risk behaviors in terms of losing faith towards Allah by comparing others to Him. In addition, they gave more importance to praying five times a day and staying away from gambling, drugs, and going to discotheques. They dressed in a way that covered their bodies more appropriately and in accordance with Islamic principles. Moreover, they fasted during Ramadan and became more public-minded.