CHARACTEISTICS AND QUALIFICATIONS OF FEMALE VOTES CANVASSERS IN BAN DUNG DISTRICT, UDON THANI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research attempted to 1) analyze the characteristics and qualifications of female vote canvassers and 2) analyze public views on female vote canvassers qualifications in Ban Dung District, Udon Thani Province from the viewpoint of three groups:  Local political candidates, canvassers, and local residents; 50 political candidates, 50 vote canvassers, and 180 eligible voters age 18 years or older. Data collected by interviewing and group discussion and questionnaires that were tested to find the confidence value (Reliability) was equal to 0.91 Present data by percentage, descriptive and Content Analysis

This study found that women play an important role as vote canvassers. The characteristics of the more effective canvassers include age 40 years or older, bachelor’s degree education, has/had served in a community leadership position, and are accepted and trusted by the local residents in various roles.  For example, some of these women are members of women’s support groups, others are spouses of community leaders, some are village health volunteers, etc.  Importantly, the best vote canvassers are those with good experience in politics.  This research also found that, compared to their male counterparts, the female vote canvassers are more trusted and generally have more attributes for being a successful vote canvasser. An explanation for this is that the women take a gentler approach, are always smiling, speak with a pleasant voice, project a sense of honesty and fairness more than their male counterparts. The female vote canvassers are more skilled at articulating the policy positions of the candidates.