International Journal of Social Sciences Bulletin
International Journal of Social Sciences Bulletin {IJSSB} ISSN (E) 3007-1917 (P) 3007-1909, is a multidisciplinary, open-access, and quarterly journal. The IJSSB is published by the Institute for Excellence in Education and Research (IEER), duly registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) under registration number 0224595. The IJSSB is committed to completing the double-blind peer-review process within one month and informing the author(s) accordingly. IJSSB aims at wide circulation and visibility in social sciences. IJSSB upholds rigorous standards of excellence. The respective authors hold copyrights of all content published in the journal.
Institute for Excellence in Education & Research
TRAINING AND NEED ASSESSMENT OF FARMERS REGARDING ASEXUAL PLANT PROPAGATION TECHNIQUES IN HORTICULTURAL PLANTS: A CASE STUDY OF PATTOKI, PUNJAB, PAKISTAN
This research investigates the training needs and knowledge gaps among farmers in Pattoki, Kasur District, Punjab, Pakistan, regarding asexual plant propagation techniques in horticultural crops. Despite favorable agro-climatic conditions for horticulture, adoption of modern propagation methods remains limited. A comprehensive need assessment was conducted involving 150 farmers to evaluate their current knowledge, skill levels, resource availability, and training preferences. Results indicate significant knowledge deficits in advanced propagation techniques, with 78% of farmers relying exclusively on seedling propagation. Major constraints include limited technical knowledge (85%), inadequate access to quality rootstocks (72%), and insufficient extension services (68%). The study proposes a multi-stakeholder training framework incorporating practical demonstrations, farmer field schools, and digital learning platforms. Implementation of targeted training interventions can enhance farmer competency, improve crop quality, and increase agricultural income by an estimated 25-40%. This research contributes to sustainable horticultural development strategies in Punjab's agricultural landscape.
Copyright (c) 2025 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0
THE ALLURE OF EASY MONEY: BETTING APPLICATIONS AND THEIR IMPACT ON THE FINANCIAL AND MENTAL WELL-BEING OF PAKISTANI YOUTH
The rapid proliferation of smartphone-based betting applications in Pakistan has introduced a novel and pervasive form of digital gambling, particularly among youth aged 18–30. These platforms, often marketed as "fantasy sports" or "skill-based gaming," leverage persuasive design principles to foster sustained engagement. Despite global evidence linking online gambling to financial precarity and mental health disorders, the Pakistani context remains critically underexamined. This mixed-methods study investigated the prevalence, patterns, predictors, and psychosocial consequences of betting app usage among Pakistani youth. A sample of 78 participants (M age = 23.4 years, SD = 3.1; 62.8% male, 37.2% female) completed an online survey, with a subsample of 12 participating in semi-structured interviews. Quantitative findings indicated that 42.3% of users engaged with betting apps weekly, with 18.2% reporting daily use. Statistically significant correlations were found between frequency of use and increased financial stress (r = .67, p < .001), higher debt accumulation (r = .59, p < .001), and elevated scores on measures of depression (PHQ-9: r = .71, p < .001) and anxiety (GAD-7: r = .64, p < .001). Regression analysis revealed that frequency of use and perceived peer norms significantly predicted both financial distress (R² = .48) and anxiety symptoms (R² = .41). Qualitative analysis identified four core themes: The Illusion of Control, Social Normalization, Financial Desperation, and Psychological Spiral. The convergence of findings underscores the urgent need for evidence-based regulation, targeted mental health interventions, enhanced financial literacy programs, and corporate responsibility to mitigate the risks posed by these platforms to Pakistani youth.
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN FAMILY ECONOMIC HARDSHIP, PARENTING STRESS, AND AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR
This study examines the relationship between family economic hardship, parenting stress, and youth aggression in Pashtun families of Mardan, Pakistan. Using multi-stage stratified sampling, 1,152 Pakhtun youth (ages 15–29) from Mardan District (including the tehsils of Mardan, Takhtbai, and Katlang) were surveyed (Hawkins, 2023 & Kirk & Hardy, 2014). Participants completed a structured questionnaire (adapted from Touliatos, 2000) measuring demographics (including family income), family cohesion, conflict, overall family environment, and self-reported aggressive behavior (Childs et al., 2022). Family cohesion was assessed via emotional bonding and shared activities, while family conflict captured arguments and rivalry.Chi-square analyses (with family income as a grouping variable) revealed that low-income families exhibited significantly more negative family environments and higher youth aggression. In the ≤40,000 PKR/month income group, 42.4% of youth reported a “severe” family environment, and family environment was strongly associated with aggression (χ², p<.001)[4]. Kendall’s τb showed a strong positive correlation between family cohesion and aggression for both income strata (τ=0.613 for low-income, τ=0.721 for high-income; p<.001) (Junco-Guerrero et al., 2022), indicating that poorer cohesion was linked to higher aggression. Family conflict also predicted aggression, though more weakly (τ=0.085 for ≤40k, τ=0.201 for >40k)[7][8]. Notably, aggression was common: over half of respondents reported frequent verbal aggression (51.4%) or physical fights (54.7%) in the home (Apel & Kaukinen, 2008). These findings align with the family stress model, suggesting that economic hardship increases parental stress and household conflict, which in turn amplify youth aggressive behaviors(Weeland et al., 2021). We conclude that interventions strengthening family cohesion and reducing parenting stress – for example, social support programs and parent training – may mitigate adolescent aggression in Mardan’s Pashtun communities
A SOCIALLY AWARE AI-AGENT FRAMEWORK FOR ENHANCING TRUST AND ETHICAL INTERACTION IN IOT-MEDIATED SOCIAL ENVIRONMENTS
The rapid diffusion of the Internet of Things (IoT) has fundamentally transformed social interaction by embedding intelligent and interconnected devices into everyday human environments. Prior research has extensively explored this transformation through bibliometric and thematic analyses, identifying critical issues related to trust, ethical behavior, and decision-making in IoT-mediated social systems. However, existing studies remain largely descriptive and do not offer practical computational mechanisms to address these social challenges. This paper addresses this limitation by proposing a socially aware AI-agent framework designed to actively enhance trust and ethical interaction within IoT-enabled social environments. The proposed framework integrates social context awareness, trust evaluation, and ethical reasoning to support human-centered decision-making without replacing human agency. A conceptual and simulation-based evaluation is conducted using representative IoT social interaction scenarios, including shared smart spaces and collaborative decision contexts. The results indicate improved consistency in trust-based interactions, reduced ethically conflicting outcomes, and enhanced transparency in mediated decisions. By operationalizing social trust and ethics as computational constructs, the proposed framework bridges the gap between social science theory and practical AI-based intervention. This study contributes a novel interdisciplinary approach that advances IoT research beyond descriptive analysis toward socially responsible and intelligent system design.
PROFESSIONALS’ EVALUATION OF AN INTERVENTIONAL PACKAGE FOR PARENTS OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER TO MANAGE SENSORY SENSITIVITIES
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an interventional package designed for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to manage sensory sensitivities and to assess professional feedback on its content, clarity, relevance, and practicality. Sensory sensitivities in children with ASD can significantly affect daily functioning, behavior, and overall development, creating challenges for parents in managing routine activities. A quantitative survey design was employed with 50 professionals, including psychologists, speech therapists, teachers, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. Data were collected using the Package Evaluation Scale for Professionals and analyzed through descriptive statistics. Findings show that most professionals rated the package highly in all domains, highlighting its comprehensiveness, clarity, appropriate length, practical strategies, and visual quality. Professionals recommended further accessibility, user-friendly materials, and ongoing parent support to enhance the management of sensory sensitivities
INFORMATION FLOWS, CYBER SECURITY POLICY AND HYBRID WARFARE: A THEMATIC ANALYSIS OF PAKISTAN
In the wake of digitalization and the proliferation of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in major domains of national power, incapacity to deter the cyber-attacks have brought the serious concerns of securitizing data for policy makers in developing countries like Pakistan. By highlighting the weak cyber infrastructure and its security policy, this study exhibits the relationship of insecure critical information flows and hybrid warfare posing challenges to the national security of Pakistan. To analyze the Pakistan’s current cyber situation, qualitative research method is adopted in which semi-structured interviews are conducted from relevant resource civil-military officials using purposive sampling technique. By analyzing through the lens of DIME ontology, the findings of thematic analysis elucidate that Pakistan’s critical information flows are insecure due to weak cyber infrastructure and delayed formulation of national cyber security policy may be responsible in making critical infrastructure prone to manifold cyberattacks. As a consequence, the threats of hybrid warfare posing challenges to the national security that are eminent due to lack of resilient measures deterring spread of disinformation and propaganda. The findings implicate by signifying the need of implementing a holistic and robust cyber security policy along with the applicability of Chinese cyber governance model with prerequisite modifications to improve the situation of cyber sector in population abundant countries like Pakistan for their best interest of national security.
QUALITATIVE DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF DENGUE AWARENESS COMMUNICATION IN ISLAMABAD: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF DAWN AND THE NATION (SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER 2025)
This study undertakes a qualitative discourse analysis of dengue disease coverage in two major Pakistani newspapers, Dawn and The Nation, during the peak dengue season (September– November 2025) in Islamabad. Using critical discourse analysis (CDA) technique, this study investigates how media narratives build dengue as a public health issue, define governmental accountability, and place citizens in public health discourse. The analysis of 45 news stories indicates distinct ideological viewpoints. Dawn takes a critical investigative posture, emphasizing systemic failings, whereas The Nation takes a state-aligned, technocratic approach. Both publications prioritize official voices above community opinions, emphasizing individual behavioral change with institutional improvement. The findings indicate that the impact of dengue awareness efforts may be limited since existing public health communication tactics predominantly view citizens as subjects of surveillance rather than as holders of rights.
LEGAL AND ETHICAL RISKS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE BASED HIRING TOOLS IN SINDH, PAKISTAN: A MANAGERIAL PERSPECTIVE
Background: Hiring tools based on Artificial Intelligence (AI) are being actively adopted in the Pakistani healthcare and corporate sections of the Sindh industry. These tools present serious ethical and legal issues particularly in areas of discrimination, privacy and accountability, though they are very efficient. Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the legal and ethical risks of using AI-based hiring tools according to the view of Sindhi managers in Pakistan. Methods: Cross-sectional survey-based descriptive study was conducted among the Human Resource (HR) and departmental managers in Sindh in the health and corporate sectors. Cochran formula was used in calculating sample size. SPSS v25 was used in the analysis of data. Results: Out of 384 respondents, 68.2% indicated that people were concerned with the privacy of their data, 54.4% respondents were aware of the existence of algorithmic bias, and 47.9% stated that they did not know anything about the legal regulation of AI recruitment in Pakistan. There was a high correlation between being aware of awareness of legal frameworks and level of education (p<0.05). Conclusion: The research concluded to the existence of the significant lack of legal awareness and moral readiness among the managers who rely on AI-based hiring options. More regulatory systems and moral education demand an immediate change to allow responsible integration of AI into recruitment.
Artificial Intelligence, Hiring Tools, Legal Risks, Ethical Risks, Sindh, Pakistan, Managerial Perspective, HR Technology
THE IMPACT OF EDTECH IN TEACHER EDUCATOR PROGRAM -A QUALITATIVE STUDY
The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of EdTech on prospective teachers and teacher educators at tertiary level. For the case study a qualitative method is appropriate to focus on real-world context. The purposive sampling was implemented to collect the information from the teachers educators and prospective teachers to collect the information from respondents regarding their integration of EdTech. The investigation illuminates the efficacy of the integrated instructional aids for educators. The teaching-learning process has been altered by the employment of creative teaching methodologies and the integration of instructional competency into teaching, which has transformed teacher education. The use and perception of instructional resources by university students aspiring to teach are investigated in this mixed methods study. Purposive sampling was used to determine how EdTech affected the teacher education system. They included the blended design. Focused group discussions were employed for qualitative samples. Thematic analysis was used to examine qualitative data in order to find themes, patterns, and insights.The study offers insightful information about how teacher preparation programs can successfully incorporate EdTech and get aspiring educators ready for the emerging educational landscape.
SACRED MEANINGS AND SILENT STRUGGLES: RELIGIOUS COPING BY WOMEN IN DISSATISFIED MARRIAGES.
Pakistani women frequently experience marital dissatisfaction as a result of sociocultural constraints, unequal relationship labor, and emotional neglect. Religion may become the dominant coping mechanism in these situations, but how women interpret religious coping in unhappy marriages is unexplored. Twelve religiously devout married women (aged 25–40; married for at least two years) who self-reported persistent marital conflict participated in semi-structured interviews using an Interpretative Phenomenological Methodology. Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) was used to analyze the data. The results reveal a painful discrepancy between Islamic marriage ideals and experienced reality, as well as ongoing emotional loneliness. Religion served as a dual coping mechanism: while negative coping increased guilt, self-silencing, and prolonged endurance through constrictive interpretations of sabr (patience) and gendered expectations, positive coping (such as prayer, dhikr, and meaning-making) offered solace and emotional control. The study expands upon Pargament's Religious Coping Theory (1997), emphasises how joint-family pressures, socially mediated religious messages, and the role of religious leaders influence coping outcomes, which can either support women's rights or reinforce silence.
RAM-BASED CACHING MODEL IMPROVING PERFORMANCE OF DISTRIBUTED SYSTEMS
This study focuses on caching, which is one of the major aspects for optimizing distributed systems that affects the entire performance and efficiency. To improve system responsiveness and decrease latency, caching techniques are vital. Caching moves frequently requested material closer to the user, decreasing the need to retrieve it from slower, more distant sources. In order to guarantee quick data retrieval and optimal resource use across numerous nodes, this paper investigates critical caching tactics, such as cache partitioning and distribution. Load balancing and the usage of suitable communication protocols guarantee effective data transmission between the nodes, which are also discussed. This paper has indicated the effectiveness of the data management and caching strategies, which can significantly enhance the performance of the systems, as well as make them scalable and more efficient. This new proposal of a study indicates that the random access memory (RAM) should be utilized as an augmented caching layer in distributed systems. Memory address translation (RAM) is an additional storage between the faster cache and the slower disk-based storage; traditional cache memory is used where the requested data is in real-time and requested often, whereas RAM is used where no limit exists on the amount of storage that may be used. By using RAM as the caching mechanism, we could significantly reduce the load on primary databases and the need to make multiple network requests. This means more resource utilization and faster retrieval of data in large-scale systems where scalability and performance are the key considerations. We want to enhance the responsiveness and scalability of the system to enable it to remain optimally functional even under increased demand.
A REVIEW OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING AND ITS IMPACT ON STUDENTS’ INTERPERSONAL SKILLS AT THE HIGHER SECONDARY LEVEL
The advancement of interpersonal skills has become a goal of modern education critical as students are more and more demanded to exhibit their competencies in the field of effective communication, collaboration, empathy, and conflict-management. However, conventional methods of instruction using lectures usually give students little chances to rehearse and train these competencies. This paper is a review of the theme of experiential learning as a powerful pedagogical style when it comes to the development of interpersonal skills in the students of higher secondary level. Based on the experiential learning theory and the learning cycle developed by Kolb, the paper summarizes theoretical insights and empirical findings in the learning settings in the world and Pakistan. The review identifies the use of experiential techniques like role-plays, simulations, project-based learning, and service-learning in building real-world social contexts that promote students in terms of communication, assertiveness, teamwork, and emotional regulation. Meta-analyses across the globe and regional studies have consistently shown that experiential learning has more impactful interpersonal results than the conventional teaching programs, particularly when followed by guided reflection as well as facilitators. The challenges to implementation that are contextually dictated in Pakistan are also discussed in the paper, such as the inflexible curricula, lack of resources, huge classes, and the lack of training of teachers, whereas the administrative support and professional growth are identified as important facilitators. The assessment finds that experiential learning has a lot of potential to reinforce interpersonal skills learning at higher secondary level and suggests that it should be systematically integrated in the curricula with policy changes and capacity building programs on teachers.
EFFECT OF EMERGING PEDAGOGICAL APPROACHES IN CIVIC ON STUDENTS’ LEARNING AT INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
The present research aims were to examine the emerging pedagogic tendencies and to detect the factors that were effecting the performance of Intermediate level students. The nature of the research is survey-based and it used both quantitative and qualitative methods. The population of the study comprises colleges of Rahim Yar Khan. The targeted population consists of 50 lecturers, and 250 students of the colleges which makes total sample size of 300 research participants. As research instrument questionnaire was used, moreover to ensure validity and reliability research instrument expert opinion was taken, and Cronbach Alpha calculations used to test questionnaire reliability. SPSS-24 Statistical Software of Social Sciences was used to analyze data. The results are presented in the tables in numbers. The overall findings indicated that emerging pedagogical approaches have powerful impact of in civic on students’ learning at intermediate level. In the end researchers offered some valuable recommendations.
Pedagogical Approaches, Civic Students, Intermediate Level
The study aims to investigate the effectiveness of EdTech on prospective teachers and teacher educators at tertiary level. For the case study a qualitative method is appropriate to focus on real-world context. The purposive sampling was implemented to collect the information from the teachers educators and prospective teachers to collect the information from respondents regarding their integration of EdTech. The investigation illuminates the efficacy of the integrated instructional aids for educators. The teaching-learning process has been altered by the employment of creative teaching methodologies and the integration of instructional competency into teaching, which has transformed teacher education. The use and perception of instructional resources by university students aspiring to teach are investigated in this mixed methods study. Purposive sampling was used to determine how EdTech affected the teacher education system. They included the blended design. Focused group discussions were employed for qualitative samples. Thematic analysis was used to examine qualitative data in order to find themes, patterns, and insights. The study offers insightful information about how teacher preparation programs can successfully incorporate EdTech and get aspiring educators ready for the emerging educational landscape.
THE IMPACT OF RESILIENCE ON ACADEMIC STRESS: A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN MALE AND FEMALE UNIVERSITY STUDENTS.
This study examined the relationship between resilience and academic stress among male and female university students enrolled in the Department of Psychology at Kohat University of Science and Technology (KUST), Pakistan. Using a quantitative, correlational, and cross- sectional design, data were collected from 326 students selected through purposive sampling, representing individuals balancing academic responsibilities. The Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and the Academic Stress Scale (ASS) were administered to assess resilience and academic stress levels. Results revealed a significant negative correlation between resilience and academic stress, indicating that students with higher resilience experienced lower academic stress. Regression analyses further showed that resilience significantly predicted on academic stress for both male and female students. Gender differences were observed in both resilience and academic stress levels, suggesting distinct coping mechanisms between male and female students. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that resilience plays a key role in reducing academic stress. Students with higher resilience experience lower pressure in academic settings, and resilience serves as a strong protective psychological factor. T-Test shows that gender differences highlight the importance of providing gender-sensitive support to help students cope with academic challenges. Strengthening resilience through counseling, training programs, and supportive learning environments may improve students’ academic performance and overall well-being. These findings reinforce the value of resilience in academic life and emphasize the need for institutional strategies that enhance coping skills. Future research should explore additional factors influencing resilience and examine long-term interventions to support diverse student populations.
MANUFACTURING DESIRE: MEDIA COMMERCIALIZATION AND WOMEN’S CONSUMER PRACTICES IN THE CONTEMPORARY DIGITAL MARKETPLACE
The commercialization of media has reorganized modern marketplaces and reshaped consumers’ motives, especially among women in emerging economies. This review synthesizes classical scholarship and new empirical work to examine how commercialization mediated through television, social media, influencer platforms (e.g., YouTube, Instagram), and algorithmic advertising transforms buying from necessity to identity-driven desire. Drawing on a detailed case study of women in Karachi (Ghous, 2020) and recent post-pandemic evidence from Pakistan and global contexts, the review maps four core dimensions: (1) the structural expansion of commercial media and e-commerce; (2) psychological mechanisms linking advertising to consumption; (3) digital personalization, privacy, and algorithmic persuasion; and (4) gendered media practices that construct and exploit ideals of beauty, empowerment, and modernity. The analysis highlights the double-edged nature of digital consumerism: increased access, convenience, and agency on one hand; increased materialism, manipulation, privacy threats, and regulatory gaps on the other. Drawing from the Karachi study which found strong commercial influence on women’s buying behavior and concerns about consumer rights and privacy, this paper synthesizes policy recommendations: stronger consumer protection and advertising regulation, media literacy campaigns focused on women, transparency and limits on data-driven personalization, and gender-sensitive ethical advertising guidelines. The review concludes by identifying priority research areas longitudinal studies of digital consumer identity formation, experimental work on algorithmic persuasion, and policy evaluations of consumer protection interventions.
commercialization, consumerism, women, advertising, algorithmic personalization, Pakistan, media literacy.
AI-DRIVEN ADAPTIVE LEARNING’S EFFECT ON STUDENT MOTIVATION AND SELF-EFFICACY IN PUBLIC SECTOR UNIVERSITIES
The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education has introduced new opportunities for personalized and adaptive learning. This study investigated the effects of AI-driven adaptive learning systems on student motivation and academic self-efficacy in public-sector universities in Pakistan. A quantitative research design was employed, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 200 students from four public universities in Lahore. The survey assessed students’ exposure to AI-based adaptive learning tools, their motivation, and their academic self-efficacy. Descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including correlation and regression analyses and independent-samples t-tests, were used to analyze the data. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between AI-driven adaptive learning and both student motivation and academic self-efficacy. Regression results indicated that AI-based adaptive learning was a strong predictor of motivation and self-efficacy, accounting for a substantial proportion of the variance in student outcomes. Additionally, students with higher levels of AI use demonstrated significantly greater motivation and self-efficacy than those with lower levels of AI use.
Artificial intelligence, adaptive learning, student motivation, academic self-efficacy
EXPLORING THE VULNERABILITY OF RURAL WOMEN TO CLIMATE CHANGE IN UNION COUNCIL GUJRI, DISTRICT SANGHAR, SINDH PROVINCE, PAKISTAN
This study, titled “Exploring the Vulnerability of Rural Women to Climate Change in Union Council Gujri, District Sanghar, Sindh, Pakistan,” examines the gendered dimensions of climate risk. It aims to analyze the specific vulnerabilities of rural women, their perceptions of climatic change, and the challenges they face during climate-related events. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 30 women through structured surveys, alongside two Focus Group Discussions and three In-Depth Interviews conducted in three highly vulnerable sub-villages of U.C. Gujri. Qualitative data were analyzed using Framework Analysis, guided by the modified Pressure and Release (PAR) model. Findings reveal that women’s climate vulnerability is intensified by socio-cultural and economic factors, including patriarchal norms, limited access to resources, exclusion from decision-making, lack of adaptive skills, and domestic violence. These factors, combined with environmental exposure, heighten overall risk. The study recommends non-structural interventions such as community-based training, women’s inclusion in decision-making, and gender equality awareness programs.
Climate Change, Gender Vulnerability, Rural Women, Pressure and Release Model, Sindh Pakistan, Adaptation Strategies, Patriarchy.
EXAMINING THE NEXUS BETWEEN DIGITALIZATION AND FINANCIAL CRIME: A STUDY OF EMERGING ECONOMIES
This research aims to explore the relationship between digitalization and financial crime, with governance acting as a moderator. Financial crime is considered the dependent variable, digitalization the independent variable, and governance the moderating factor. Financial crime is measured by the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI), while digitalization is assessed through two proxies: e-government and e-participation. The study uses quantitative panel data from 2008 to 2022. Econometric analysis reveals that digitalization has a significant and positive impact on financial crime. Both proxies of e-participation and e-governance demonstrate a positive and significant impact on financial crime. This indicates that digitalization without proper governance mechanisms can lead to misuse and harm the country’s economy. Additionally, when governance is added as a moderator, the positive relationship between digitalization and financial crime persists but is notably weakened. The study highlights that technology will be beneficial only when supported by effective policies for its adoption and use.
Digitalization, E-Participation, E-Governance, Financial Crime, Population Growth
PSYCHOLOGICAL WELLBEING OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS EXAMINING THE INFLUENCE OF PERCEIVED STRESS AND SELF ESTEEM
The undergraduate students are exposed to various psychological issues which may significantly impact their psychological health. The current study investigated the mental wellbeing of the university students with a special focus on perceived stress, self-esteem and how these variables relate to each other. The Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale was used to measure mental wellbeing, whereas perceived stress and self-esteem were measured with the help of Perceived Stress Questionnaire and the Rosenberg Self Esteem Scale. The study involved 271 undergraduate students of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology and Liaquat University of medical and health sciences. The survey was conducted online and the results included data of 103 males and 168 female students. This research had three main hypotheses: firstly, mental wellbeing is considerably common and effective in undergraduate students; secondly, the greater the level of mental wellbeing, the greater the level of self-esteem; and thirdly, the greater the level of mental wellbeing, the lesser the level of perceived stress. The findings revealed that there was a high rate of low mental wellbeing among the students. The high mental wellbeing range was only 7.67 percent where 61.32 percent were in the low range. According to the classifications of Warwick Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale, 5.5 percent of the students were rated as above average, 47.6 as average, 18 as below average, and 28 very low in their mental wellbeing. Regression analyses showed the support of all hypotheses of the research and indicated that mental wellbeing significantly predicted the perceived stress ( -0.673, p < 0.001) and self-esteem ( -0.677, p < 0.001) with 45.3 percent and 45 percent of the variance respectively. These results demonstrate the necessity to enhance mental health in the students of universities with specific attention to the stress-reduction measures and self-esteem improvement programmes.
mental health services, mental wellness, perceived stress, Self-esteem, The warwick-edinburgh mental well-being scale, undergraduate students
GENDER-INCLUSIVE LANGUAGE: A STUDY ON GEN Z’S ROLE IN REDEFINING GENDERED LANGUAGE NORMS
This paper examines Generation Z's influential role in redefining gendered language norms, focusing on their efforts to challenge traditional binary and patriarchal linguistic structures. Using qualitative methodology with structured interviews and thematic analysis, the study explores how Gen Z adopts gender-neutral pronouns, inclusive terminology, and digital gender inclusivity to foster more equitable linguistic practices. The findings highlight language as both a mirror and a moulder of societal gender roles, reflecting entrenched norms while also serving as a tool for social activism and identity construction. Despite progressive shifts driven by Gen Z, barriers such as conservative resistance and social pressures remain, particularly within the Pakistani sociocultural context. The study contributes to sociolinguistic theory by affirming the performative nature of gender and the agency of youth in linguistic innovation, urging further cross-cultural research on evolving gender-inclusive language practices.
Generation Z, gendered language, gender neutrality, inclusive language, sociolinguistics, non-binary pronouns, linguistic innovation, social activism, Pakistan, thematic analysis.
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an interventional package designed for parents of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to manage sensory sensitivities and to assess professional feedback on its content, clarity, relevance, and practicality. Sensory sensitivities in children with ASD can significantly affect daily functioning, behavior, and overall development, creating challenges for parents in managing routine activities. A quantitative survey design was employed with 50 professionals, including psychologists, speech therapists, teachers, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. Data were collected using the Package Evaluation Scale for Professionals and analyzed through descriptive statistics. Findings show that most professionals rated the package highly in all domains, highlighting its comprehensiveness, clarity, appropriate length, practical strategies, and visual quality. Professionals recommended further accessibility, user-friendly materials, and ongoing parent support to enhance the management of sensory sensitivities.
Autism Spectrum Disorder, sensory sensitivities, parent intervention, interventional package, professional evaluation, sensory management
BETWEEN FAITH AND MEDICINE: A CRITICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS OF RELIGIOUS INFLUENCERS’ NARRATIVES ON BREAST CANCER AWARENESS IN PAKISTAN
Background: Breast cancer remains the most prevalent malignancy among women in Pakistan, where delayed diagnosis, sociocultural stigma, and modesty-related barriers significantly impede early detection. Religious influencers have become prominent communicative actors through digital platforms, shaping public understandings of health, morality, and gender norms. Limited research has examined how these influencers discursively construct breast cancer awareness. Aim: This study explores how Pakistani religious influencers frame breast cancer within faith-based narratives and negotiate the relationship between spiritual beliefs and biomedical recommendations. Methodology: A qualitative design informed by Critical Discourse Analysis was applied to eight purposively selected online videos produced by Pakistani religious influencers. Fairclough’s three-dimensional model guided systematic analysis of textual features, discursive practices, and socio-cultural contexts. Findings: Four dominant discourses were identified: (1) breast cancer as a divine test and moral trial, (2) modesty as a regulatory mechanism governing women’s bodies, (3) hierarchical positioning of biomedical knowledge beneath faith-centred healing, and (4) gendered religious authority mediating women’s health decision-making. These discourses collectively reinforce religious legitimacy while replicating structural barriers to early screening and autonomous health-seeking. Conclusion: Religious influencers hold substantial potential to support culturally resonant breast cancer messaging; however, their discourse often reproduces modesty-driven silences, moralized illness interpretations, and patriarchal authority structures. Integrating faith-sensitive communication with evidence-based guidance is essential for enhancing breast cancer awareness and improving timely healthcare utilization in Pakistan.
Breast Cancer; Islam; Religious Influencers; Critical Discourse Analysis; Pakistan; Digital Religion; Women’s Health; Health Communication
THE ROLE OF LEADER HUMILITY AND DIGITAL RESILIENCE IN SHAPING EMPLOYEE ADAPTIVE PERFORMANCE
This study developed and empirically tested the role of leader humility in shaping employee’s adaptive performance via the mediating role of digital resilience and the moderating role of leader role overload. Data were collected from 230 employees working in technology-integrated organizations through questionnaire-based surveys. Findings reveal that leader humility facilitates employee adaptive performance by positively effecting employee digital resilience which in turn promotes adaptive performance. Further, leader overload was found to moderate the relation between leader humility and digital resilience. Implications and future research directions are also discussed.
IMPACT OF PERSONALIZED ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING (PELT) ON SPEAKING SKILLS IN GRADE 5 ESL CLASSROOMS: A STUDY IN A PAKISTANI EDUCATIONAL SETTING
This qualitative study investigates the impact of Personalized English Language Teaching (PELT) on the speaking skills of Grade 5 ESL learners in public primary schools in Punjab, Pakistan, and identifies the effective strategies underpinning this approach. Grounded in an interpretivist paradigm, it employs a phenomenological methodology to explore the lived experiences of 20 purposively sampled ESL teachers through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Thematic analysis of the data, facilitated by NVivo software, bring in two core findings aligned with the research objectives. First, teachers perceived PELT as significantly enhancing students’ speaking skills, noting dual benefits in linguistic competence (e.g., contextualized vocabulary, improved fluency) and psycho-social development (e.g., increased confidence, reduced anxiety). Second, the study delineates a scaffolded framework of effective PELT strategies, progressing from diagnostic and interest-based grouping, through differentiated interaction and feedback, to fostering student agency and reflective practice. The conclusion establishes PELT as a potent pedagogy for this context, while simultaneously highlighting the moderating constraint of large class sizes, which necessitates pragmatic adaptation. The study contributes actionable insights for teacher training, curriculum design, and classroom practice, advocating for the integration of personalized, student-centred methodologies. It recommends future research employing mixed-methods and longitudinal designs to quantitatively measure PELT's impact and test the transferability of its strategic framework.
Personalized English Language Teaching (PELT)
IMPACT OF ADMISSION MERIT ON ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE SECTOR NURSING COLLEGES IN PUNJAB
Background: Admission merit is widely considered a key determinant of academic success in nursing education. However, variations in admission criteria and institutional environments between public and private sector nursing colleges may influence the strength of this relationship. Understanding how admission merit relates to academic performance across different institutional contexts is essential for improving selection policies and educational outcomes. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to examine the influence of admission merit on academic performance and to compare academic outcomes between public and private sector nursing colleges in Punjab. The objectives were to assess differences in admission merit and academic performance between sectors and to determine the relationship between admission merit and academic performance. Methodology: A comparative analytical cross-sectional study was conducted using secondary data obtained from 23 nursing colleges, including 10 public and 13 private sector institutions in Punjab. Admission closing merit percentages and academic performance results were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were computed, followed by independent samples t-tests to compare public and private sectors. Pearson correlation analysis was applied to determine the relationship between admission merit and academic performance. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Public sector nursing colleges demonstrated significantly higher mean admission merit and academic performance compared to private sector colleges (p < 0.001). A statistically significant moderate positive correlation was observed between admission merit and academic performance (r = 0.468, p = 0.024), indicating that higher entry merit was associated with better academic outcomes. Conclusion: Admission merit significantly influences academic performance in nursing education, with public sector institutions showing superior outcomes. However, institutional factors also play a critical role, highlighting the need for balanced admission policies and strengthened academic support systems, particularly in private sector nursing colleges.
AN OVERVIEW OF INTERNATIONAL AND REGIONAL INSTRUMENTS SAFEGUARDING CHILD RIGHTS"
This Paper highlights significant legal milestones and the “best interest of the child” premise in international and regional child rights treaties. The 1959 UN Declaration of the Rights of the Child and the 1989 CRC establish broad, enforceable rights for children, including protection, participation, non-discrimination, and development. Child protections are strengthened and regionalized by the Minimum Age Convention (MAC), Optional Protocols on child trafficking and child soldiers, and African and European charters. These frameworks address child labor, trafficking, legal procedural rights, education, and adoption. Regional charters and conventions add children's duties in the African Charter or procedural rights in the European Charter to global norms. Despite broad legislative frameworks, the “best interest of the child” premise requires judicial and administrative discretion to adapt specific circumstances. Jurisprudential development works to guarantee that legal instruments articulate and successfully implement children's rights worldwide and regionally, building a legacy of protection and empowerment.
CLIMATE CHANGE AS A DRIVER OF INTERNAL MIGRATION AND DISPLACEMENT IN PAKISTAN
Climate change has emerged as a critical driver of internal migration and displacement in Pakistan, exacerbating vulnerabilities across socio-economic, environmental, and human security dimensions. This research examines the relationship between climate hazards including floods, droughts, glacial lake outburst floods, and coastal salinity, and heat waves and population movements within Pakistan. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining secondary data analysis, government reports, and case studies of major climate events (e.g., the 2010 and 2022 floods, droughts in Tharparkar and Cholistan, sea intrusion in Sindh, and glacial hazards in northern region of Pakistan), the study identifies the key drivers, patterns, and socio-economic consequences of climate-induced displacement. Findings indicate that both rapid-onset disasters and slow-onset environmental changes contribute to temporary, seasonal, and long-term migration, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations, particularly women, children, and marginalized households. The research highlights gaps in policy, institutional coordination, and data availability, and proposes comprehensive recommendations, including the development of a national climate migration strategy, legal recognition of climate IDPs, climate-resilient infrastructure, community-based adaptation, early warning systems, and a centralized displacement tracking database. This study underscores the urgent need to address climate-induced migration as a human security priority in Pakistan and offers evidence-based policy guidance to enhance resilience, reduce vulnerability, and support sustainable development.
BARRIERS TO WOMEN’S POLITICAL ENGAGEMENT IN PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY OF CULTURAL, SOCIAL AND INSTITUTIONAL OBSTACLES
Women’s political engagement in Pakistan has witnessed gradual progress over the past few decades, yet cultural, social, and institutional barriers continue to undermine their active participation in governance and decision-making processes. Despite the introduction of constitutional guarantees, legislative quotas, and policy reforms aimed at enhancing female representation, entrenched patriarchal norms and restrictive cultural traditions limit women’s visibility in the political sphere. Social constraints, including family opposition, gender stereotypes, and limited access to education and resources, further marginalize women from electoral politics and leadership roles. Institutional obstacles, such as weak enforcement of gender-inclusive policies, lack of political party support, and structural inefficiencies in electoral systems, exacerbate these challenges. Recent academic literature, government reports, and international development studies highlight that while reserved seats in legislatures have provided women with a symbolic presence, substantive participation and influence remain constrained by systemic inequalities. This case study seeks to critically analyze these multi-dimensional barriers by examining both the formal structures of political institutions and the informal socio-cultural dynamics that shape women’s political opportunities. Drawing on contemporary scholarly works and recent government publications, the study underscores the need for comprehensive reforms, gender-sensitive political capacity-building, and societal change to foster meaningful female engagement. The analysis contributes to the broader discourse on gender and politics in South Asia, offering insights into how cultural, social, and institutional forces intersect to sustain gendered exclusion in Pakistan’s political landscape.
DETERMINING THE EFFECT OF SERVICE QUALITY PERCEPTIONS ON STUDENTS AND FACULTY SATISFACTION IN HIGHER EDUCATION CONTEXT: THE MODERATING ROLE OF INSTITUTIONAL IMAGE IN SELECTED BUSINESS INSTITUTES IN SINDH PROVINCE
Purpose: To determining the effect of service quality perceptions on students and faculty satisfaction in higher education context: the moderating role of institutional image in selected business institutes in Sindh province. Methodology: This research is founded on a pragmatic philosophy, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrates both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The study is explanatory in nature, aiming to clarify the relationships between the variables under investigation. Furthermore, the research adopts a cross-sectional time horizon, collecting and analysing data at a single point in time to provide a snapshot of the phenomena. This research study has used convenience sampling technique. Close-ended questionnaires in digital and paper form were shared with respondents for the data collection.Seven point Likert scale ranging from one (strongly disagree) to seven (strongly agree) questionnaire is used for data collection which is adopted and modified HEdPERF model, is known as an effective tool for measuring perceived service quality because various studies have proved its superiority over the other instruments particularly in the higher education context (Brocado, 2009; Firdaus, 2006). Findings: The results confirm that service quality in both academic and non-academic areas significantly boosts satisfaction for students and faculty, and that institutional image strengthens this relationship. Specifically, academic service quality had a strong impact on student (β = 0.45) and faculty (β = 0.52) satisfaction. This aligns with prior research by Mehta & Tariq (2020) and Banahene et al. (2018), confirming that high-quality teaching, resources, and faculty expertise are crucial for satisfaction.