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Thai Folk Games in the Digital Era: Social Roles, Sports Science Perspectives, and Preservation Strategies |
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| รหัสดีโอไอ | |
| Creator | Tachapon Tongterm |
| Title | Thai Folk Games in the Digital Era: Social Roles, Sports Science Perspectives, and Preservation Strategies |
| Publisher | DR.KET INSTITUTE OF ACADEMIC DEVELOPMENT AND PROMOTION |
| Publication Year | 2568 |
| Journal Title | Journal of Social Sciences Innovations |
| Journal Vol. | 2 |
| Journal No. | 5 |
| Page no. | 57-80 |
| Keyword | Thai folk games, Cultural capital, Sports science, Holistic well-being, Preservation strategies |
| URL Website | https://so13.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jssi/about |
| Website title | https://so13.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/jssi/about |
| ISSN | 3057-0948 |
| Abstract | In the context of a Thai society undergoing a transition from rural to urban structures, Thai folk games, which were once an integral part of daily life, have been increasingly marginalized and are at risk of being reduced to mere symbolic performances in cultural events. Nevertheless, these folk games still hold profound benefits in social, cultural, and sports science dimensions. This article, therefore, aims to 1) analyze the role of Thai folk games as cultural capital that strengthens community relationships and transmits values across generations, 2) evaluate their sports science value in developing physical fitness, mental health, and social behavior, and 3) propose appropriate preservation and revitalization strategies for the current social context. By synthesizing knowledge from research and contemporary conceptual frameworks, the analysis reveals that folk games function as cultural capital that fosters unity, trust, and intergenerational bonds. At the same time, they serve as a "natural training ground" that helps develop physical fitness (such as muscular strength, endurance, agility, speed, and balance) while promoting mental well-being through stress reduction, emotional management, and the creation of positive energy, alongside cultivating social skills like teamwork, responsibility, and constructive coexistence. However, the continuation of folk games today faces challenges from structural changes, digital media, and commercial pressures. Therefore, preservation strategies should be driven by sports science and recreation and integrated into the education system, community activities, and cultural tourism, while incorporating digital innovations to create new values aligned with modern society. This article underscores that Thai folk games are not merely a cultural heritage but a dynamic driving force for enhancing quality of life and sustaining Thai society in a transitional era. |