Determinants of Drought Adaptation Under Climate Change Among Rice-Farming Households in the Northernmost Region of Thailand

Rice farmers in Chiang Rai are increasingly exposed to recurrent drought under climate change. Although previous studies have applied Knowledge–Attitude–Practice (KAP) frameworks to drought adaptation, evidence on ageing farming populations and the interaction between behavioral and institutional factors remains limited. This study aimed to identify behavioral and institutional factors associated with drought adaptation practices among rice-farming households. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 180 rice-farming households. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire validated through expert review (IOC) and pilot testing to assess socio-demographic characteristics and drought-related perception, knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP). Pearson correlation and binary logistic regression were applied to examine relationships and factors associated with higher drought adaptation practices. Qualitative data from open-ended questionnaire responses regarding government support and drought management recommendations were analyzed thematically to provide contextual insights into farmers’ experiences and adaptation challenges. Farmers demonstrated high drought perception (M = 4.86 ± 1.05/5) but only moderate knowledge (16.75 ± 3.36/25), attitudes (2.77 ± 1.33/5), and practices (22.57 ± 6.04/35). Knowledge was positively associated with adaptation practices (r = 0.224, p < 0.01), whereas perception showed no significant direct association, indicating a gap between awareness and adaptive action. Regression analysis showed that higher drought-related knowledge (aOR = 4.60, p = 0.003) and prior water scarcity experience (aOR = 4.45, p = 0.002) were significantly associated with higher drought adaptation practices. In contrast, older age, male gender, and off-farm employment were significant constraints. Qualitative findings highlighted persistent concerns regarding the adequacy, timeliness, and equity of government support, suggesting that institutional barriers limited farmers’ ability to translate awareness into adaptive action. These findings indicate that both behavioral and structural factors shape drought adaptation practices. While drought-related knowledge represents an important component of adaptive capacity, effective adaptation also depends on institutional support and resource accessibility. Strengthening agricultural extension services and improving the responsiveness and equity of government support may enhance the adaptive capacity and resilience of smallholder rice farmers in drought-prone regions.