PURATTIMADISA: THE ROLES OF PARENTS IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Abstract

This academic article aims to examine the roles and responsibilities of parents based on the principle of Puratthimadisa in the Sigalovada Sutta, reinterpreting it to align with the context of 21st-century society. This era is characterized by rapid changes driven by digital technology and online media, which significantly influence the behavior, learning processes, and relationships of children and youth. From this study, the author synthesizes the findings into a conceptual framework called the Purat Model, which explains parental roles in five key dimensions: protection from wrongdoing, promotion of goodness, enhancement of learning, development of appropriate relationships, and wise transfer of resources. These dimensions comprehensively address moral development, education, emotional growth, and the ability to live in a digital society. In addition, the article proposes practical applications for real-life family contexts, such as family mindfulness practice, compassion-based parenting, moral cultivation in daily life, and responsible use of technology. These approaches aim to help children develop self-regulation, rational thinking, and the ability to use digital media appropriately.