Impact of Tsz Shan Monastery visiting experiences & digital media engagement on mental wellbeing and Buddhist perspective
Project Description
The Tsz Shan Monastery Collaborative Research Project is designed to provide comprehensive insights into the influence of spiritual environments on mental well-being and religious perspectives. This unique initiative stands out by integrating traditional survey methods with modern digital analytics to understand and document the evolving role of spiritual sites in contemporary society.
The first objective of this project focuses on deploying a questionnaire survey with a representative sampling design. This approach aims to delve into the profiles and experiences of visitors at the Tsz Shan Monastery. By examining these details, the project seeks to uncover the potential impacts of monastery visits on individuals' mental health and their viewpoints on Buddhism. Such data is crucial for understanding how spiritual practices and environments contribute to psychological well-being in a fast-paced, modern world.
Furthermore, the project sets out to summarise social media engagement to highlight the monastery’s growing appeal among the younger demographic. This facet of the research is particularly compelling as it bridges the gap between traditional religious engagement and modern digital interaction. By analysing social media trends and engagement patterns, the project will showcase how spiritual institutions can thrive and remain relevant in a digital age, particularly among youth who may not traditionally engage in religious settings.
This interdisciplinary approach not only addresses real-world challenges — such as mental health and the adaptation of traditional institutions to contemporary needs — but also appeals to a broad audience spanning from social scientists and religious scholars to digital marketers and mental health professionals. The findings are expected to influence future strategies for engagement and support within the monastery and similar institutions, enhancing their role in society and their impact on diverse populations.
Overall, this research project promises to provide valuable insights into the intersection of spirituality, mental health, and digital engagement, underscoring the dynamic relationship between age-old institutions and modern societal trends.
Project Investigator
Dr Nick ZHANG (Department of Journalism)
Funding/ Award
Research Grants Council - Research Matching Grant Scheme
