Culture and Personality of Thai Teenagers in Industrial Technology Context

Abstract

This qualitative research aimed to 1) examine the culture of Thai industrial technology teenagers and 2) analyze the personality traits of Thai industrial technology teenagers. The study employed cultural anthropology methodologies integrated with semiotics and symbolic interactionism. The target group consisted of 50 undergraduate students, who participated in workshops involving life history writing, portrait drawing, and symbol design. The collected materials were analyzed for content to synthesize key themes.

The findings revealed that 1) the culture of Thai industrial technology adolescents encompasses eight key dimensions: 1.1) family as a driving force for psychological support and life goals; 1.2) working while studying as a reflection of capability and future planning; 1.3) political silence as a survival strategy; 1.4) vocational education as a means to improve quality of life; 1.5) beliefs as a space for self-healing; 1.6) health care practices transmitted through the family; 1.7) the online world as a platform for identity creation; and 1.8) group activities as a way to create safe spaces and dignified self-expression. In addition, 2) In terms of personality, the study found a variety of deep and intricate characteristics, blending confidence, sociability, responsibility, and problem-solving skills. The students’ artworks and symbols reflected the transcendence of gender norms, creativity, and the development of identities connected to the digital world, morality, and lifelong learning. These qualities demonstrate the emergence of a “new generation of industrial technologists” who possess social consciousness, flexibility, and readiness to embrace changes in the modern world.