1702
Abstract
The purposes of this research were to study : 1) the household economy, way of life, socio-cultural activities
and village environment 2) type and quantity of naturally grown and homegrown vegetables consumed and sold by
villagers of Ban Yang Ngam.3) the differential between the household wich followed the sufficiency economy and those
which followed the mainstream.This research employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches through
observations, in-depth interviews and structured questionnaire asking 100 respondents which served as the sample for the
study. The data were analyzed statistically along with data collected from primary and secondary sources. By following
the principle of sufficiency economy, the households were divided into two groups: those which followed the sufficiency
economy and those which followed the mainstream (capitalistic) economy. Both groups were compared in terms of
socio-cultural and environmental aspects.The majority of the villagers in Ban Yang Ngam most of whom belong to the
middle economic class, are fully aware of the essence of sufficiency economic way of life. Household members
complete primary and lower secondary education. On average there are five members in each household, most of whom
are engaged in tapping rubber. Secondary to rubber is growing vegetables and selling stuffs. Activities are organized in
groups such as chemical-free vegetable growing group and cattle raising group and saving group. People still maintain
traditions and customs as reflected in the rite of respecting the elderly by pouring water onto their palms in Songkran
Day, farewell to rice straws ceremony, and village games. For chemical-free vegetable growing group, the total area for
planting the vegetables is about 30 rais (12.5 acres). The group is managed by members of the board. It earns a
reputation of good management, where it produces fertilizer for own use. Some households are not able to join the group
because of lack of land area for planting. The group seek permission from the Department of Navy to use the empty land
for additional planting of the vegetables.The markets are Talad Tungwang, Talad Rodfai, Taladnat kubor and Taladnat
Prince of Songkla University in Songkhla province. Villagers grow vegetables for their own consumption and the surplus
is for sale. They also collect naturally grown vegetables for consumption to lessen their expenses and to increase income.
The efforts made by members of the group lead the villagers to organize activities together, become united and assist
each others, thus raising the spirit of loving their birthplace and increasing community strength and national security.
Keywords : household economy, sufficiency economy ,naturally grown vegetable ,homegrown vegetable
