The Heart of Youth in the ‘Drama-Loving’ Era: Transforming Emotional Energy into Intellectual Power through Dhamma

Abstract

This scholarly article presents an analysis of the current era, where technology and social media play a significant role in every aspect of youth life. In this digital landscape, young people face the cultural phenomenon of “drama,” characterized by intense emotional expressions and online conflicts. Such phenomena have altered the mental states and behaviors of youth, affecting their emotions and relationships within families, communities, and society as a whole often marked by fragility and uncertainty. In response, the article proposes integrating Buddhist Dharma principles into modern digital lifestyles. It emphasizes the practices of mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom as key tools for regulating emotions and managing volatile feelings. By applying these teachings, negative energies stemming from anger, sadness, or disappointment can be transformed into creative forces that promote personal development and a balanced life.

The author synthesizes this knowledge into a framework known as the “3 S’s” aimed at enhancing self-awareness, building psychological resilience, and fostering positive social relationships. This approach is designed to empower young people to achieve sustainable personal growth and maintain equilibrium amid the rapid changes and challenges of the digital age.