Vipassana 'Dhammasaya' Changes Social Behaviour of Inmates
Shahid Kirti Multidisciplinary Journal May 28, 2025 DOI: 10.3126/skmj.v3i01.79296 (opens in new tab)
Summary
AI-generated from the abstractVipassana meditation, a technique originating over 2500 years ago, fosters self-transformation through self-observation. A qualitative study at the Nakkhu Vipassana Centre 'Dhammasaya' in Nepal examined its effects on inmates. Among 43 inmates, 9 were purposively sampled, along with 7 key informants including the Deputy Prime Minister, three Vipassana trainers, a jailer, and two police personnel. Thematic analysis of data from 16 samples indicated that the practice develops positive and optimistic attitudes, reduces anger, irritation, and anxiety, encourages self-correction of behavior, and improves physical and mental health, purifying mind and character. The authors conclude Vipassana is effective for social reintegration and jail reform in Nepal.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Qualitative study Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Sample size | 16 |
| Population | Inmates at Nakkhu Vipassana Centre 'Dhammasaya' and key informants (Deputy Prime Minister, Vipassana trainers, jailer, police personnel) |
| Intervention | Vipassana meditation |
| Key finding | Vipassana meditation develops positive attitudes, reduces anger and anxiety, improves mental and physical health, and aids social reintegration and jail reform. |
Abstract
Vipassana Meditation is a technique discovered by Buddha more than 2500 years ago has been practiced in many countries in the world. This is a non-denominational scientific technique of self-transformation through self-observation in society. Several studies around the world have revealed that the positive effects of this Meditation. The descriptive qualitative research method has been used to explore the social behavioral changes of inmates meditating on Nakkhu Vipassana Centre 'Dhammasaya'. Out of 43 inmates, 9 inmates have been purposively selected as sample to take research data. Also for key informant interview, the Deputy prime minister, three vipassana trainers, one jailer and two police personnel have been selected for primary data. The qualitative data from 16 samples have been collected and thematically analysized. Empirical results have revealed that it has assessed to develop positive and optimistic attitude; reduce anger, irritation and anxiety; make self-correction of behaviour; improve physical and mental health and purify their mind and character in 'Dhammasaya'. Thus the study has revealed that Vipassana meditation in it is more effective for social reintegration and jail reform in Nepal.