International Journal of Politics & Social Sciences Review (IJPSSR)
ISSN 2959-6467 (Online) :: ISSN 2959-6459 (Print) :: ISSN 2959-6459 (ISSN-L) International Journal of Politics & Social Sciences Review (IJPSSR) is a peer-reviewed & multi-disciplinary online open access journal, which provides the best platform for researchers and scholars all over the world to share the latest findings. Authors are encouraged to submit complete, unpublished, original and innovative works in all social science fields. The journal focuses on, but not limited to the following topics: Political Science, Philosophy, Criminology, Anthropology, Humanities, Government Studies, Development Studies, Gender Studies, International Relations, Law, Public Administration, Public Policy, Women Education, Women Empowerment, Education, Sociology, Psychology, Physical Education & Sports, Special Education, Journalism & Mass Communication, Islamic Studies, Pakistan Studies, Cultural Studies, History, Geography, Cross-cultural Studies, Linguistic and Literature, Social Work, Online & Distance Learning, Global Pedagogies, Ethics, Demographical Studies, Economics, Commerce, Management Sciences and other related subjects. Authors are encouraged to submit your papers through Open Journal System (OJS) or send to us via this email ijpssrjournal@gmail.com directly according to the submission guidelines.
Gandhara Education and Research Consultants (GERC)
Artificial Intelligence and Burnout among Professionals: The Moderating Role of Cognitive Efficacy
The increasing integration of the artificial intelligence (AI) into the professional environments has transformed the work processes while the raising concerns about the employee well being and the burnout. This study aimed to examine a relationship between the AI usage and a burnout with particular focus on moderating role of the cognitive efficacy among the clinical and organizational professionals. A quantitative cross-sectional research design was employed. A total of 180 professionals participated in the study, including 100 clinical and 80 organizational professionals selected through purposive sampling based on their exposure to AI tools in the workplace. Standardized measures, including the Maslach Burnout Inventory, a Cognitive Efficacy Scale, and an AI Usage Intensity Scale, were administered via an online survey. Data were analyzed using Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and moderation analysis. Results indicated that AI usage significantly predicted burnout, whereas cognitive efficacy was negatively associated with burnout. Furthermore, cognitive efficacy significantly moderated the relationship between AI usage and burnout, such that individuals with higher cognitive efficacy reported lower levels of burnout despite increased AI engagement. Additionally, clinical professionals demonstrated higher levels of emotional exhaustion compared to their organizational counterparts. The findings highlight dual impact of the AI as both a job demand or resource, emphasizing the protective role of cognitive efficacy. Implications for organizational training and psychological resilience interventions are discussed.
Artificial Intelligence; Burnout; Cognitive Efficacy; Technostress; Job Demands–Resources Model; Moderation Analysis; Occupational Well-being
Copyright (c) 2026 Sehrish Rafique, Hira Afzal, Aurang Zaib Ashraf Shami, Saima Ashraf, Abdul Rafay https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Mediating Role of Parental Motivation: Effects of Social Media Addiction on Sports Performance and Psychological Health of Athletes
The present study focus on effects of social media addiction on sports performance and psychological health of club-level athletes, with a special focus on the mediating role of parental motivation. A quantitative research design was adopted, and data were collected from 231 club-level athletes involved in cricket, football, and badminton in District Dera Ismail Khan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Valid and reliable questionnaires were used to measure social media addiction, sports performance, psychological health (stress, anxiety, burnout, goal setting, and decision making), and parental motivation. The collected data were analyzed using (SPSS Version- 32), applying descriptive statistics, reliability and normality tests, correlation analysis, regression analysis, and mediation analysis through Hayes Process Macro. On the basis of analysis, the results showed that social media addiction had a significant negative relationship with sports performance and psychological health. Athletes who spent excessive time on social media reported lower performance levels, higher stress, anxiety, and burnout, and weaker psychological skills needed for effective decision making and goal setting. The findings further revealed that parental motivation played a positive and protective role in athletes’ performance and mental well-being. Athletes who received strong encouragement, guidance, and support from their parents demonstrated better sports performance and healthier psychological states. Mediation analysis confirmed that parental motivation partially mediated the relationship between social media addiction and both sports performance and psychological health. This means that excessive social media use reduces parental motivational support, which then negatively affects athletes’ outcomes; however, social media addiction also influences athletes directly through psychological pressure and emotional strain. Demographic analysis indicated that socioeconomic status and locality significantly affected athletes’ psychological health, with lower socioeconomic and rural athletes being more vulnerable, while ethnicity showed no significant differences. In conclusion, the study highlights that social media addiction is a serious concern for athletes’ performance and mental health, whereas parental motivation serves as an important buffering factor. The study emphasizes the need for awareness programs, responsible social media use, parental involvement, and psychological support systems to promote healthy digital habits and sustainable athletic development. The findings provide valuable guidance for athletes, parents, coaches, and policymakers working to enhance sports performance and psychological well-being in the digital age.
Social Media Addiction, Sports Performance, Psychological Health, Parental Motivation, Athletes
Copyright (c) 2026 Abdul Basit, Dr. Noor Muhammad, Nasira Parveen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Political Instability in South Asia, Regional Security Threats, and Great-Power Involvement in the Indo-Pacific
Political instability remains one of the most enduring features of South Asia’s political landscape. Across the region—particularly in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Afghanistan—periodic governance crises, contested elections, civil–military tensions, polarization, and weak institutional capacity have repeatedly challenged state authority. These domestic conditions do not stay confined within borders. Instead, instability shapes how states perceive threats, how they allocate security resources, and behave toward neighbors. In a region already burdened by unresolved territorial disputes, ethnic and religious cleavages, and uneven economic development, internal instability often magnifies interstate mistrust and encourages securitized responses. At the same time, the Indo-Pacific has emerged as a major arena of strategic competition, connecting the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean through vital sea lanes, energy routes, and trade corridors. Great powers—especially the United States and China, along with regional powers such as India, Japan, and Australia—have elevated South Asia’s relevance due to its geostrategic location, population size, market potential, and proximity to chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca. Political instability in South Asia creates security dilemmas and governance gaps that outside powers interpret as both risks (terrorism spillover, nuclear escalation, maritime disruption) and opportunities (ports, basing access, defense partnerships, economic leverage, and diplomatic influence). This study explains the chain linking political instability (as an independent variable) to regional security threats (as an intervening condition) and to great-power involvement (as a dependent outcome). Theoretically grounded in neorealism, balance of power theory, and regional security complex theory, the study argues that instability weakens state capacity and predictability, increases internal conflict and cross-border tension, and makes the regional order more contested—conditions that invite external balancing and strategic engagement. Using qualitative content analysis of secondary sources, the study finds that domestic instability contributes to insurgency, terrorism, border incidents, humanitarian crises, and economic fragility, all of which incentivize major powers to deepen influence through infrastructure investment, military cooperation, arms transfers, diplomatic mediation, and competing regional initiatives. The central conclusion is that South Asia’s internal political instability is not only a domestic governance issue; it is a strategic variable shaping security outcomes and intensifying Indo-Pacific geopolitics.
Political Instability; South Asia; Regional Security; Indo-Pacific; Great Power Competition; Geopolitics; Balance of Power; Neorealism; Strategic Influence
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Kanwal Hayat, Faiza Mansoor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The Impact of Chinese Leadership Style on Pakistani Employees' Performance: A Case Study of Shanghai Electric Thar Coal Power Project
With the continued expansion of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Chinese enterprises are increasingly operating in culturally diverse environments, where cross-cultural management challenges have become a critical concern. Among these, the effectiveness of Chinese leadership styles in foreign cultural contexts remains insufficiently understood. This research proposes to investigate how traditional Chinese leadership styles—authoritative, benevolent, and virtuous—affect employee performance in Pakistan, an important partner country under the BRI framework. It also seeks to investigate how perceived support from the organization and cultural intelligence moderate these correlations. This study will use an explanatory sequential mixed-methods design with a focus on quantitative analysis supported by qualitative insights. In the qualitative phase, semi-structured interviews with managers and employees will provide deeper insights into the contextual dynamics underlying leadership effectiveness. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design is adopted, with a primary focus on quantitative analysis supported by qualitative insights. The findings are expected to contribute to leadership and cross-cultural management literature by extending Chinese leadership theory into an Islamic cultural context and by examining the interaction between leadership styles and key moderating factors. Practically, the study aims to provide insights for multinational Chinese enterprises to enhance leadership effectiveness and improve employee performance in cross-cultural settings. Overall, this research will provide both theoretical and practical contributions to understanding leadership effectiveness in international business environments, particularly within the context of China–Pakistan economic cooperation under the BRI.
Chinese Leadership Style; Employee Performance; Cultural Intelligence; Perceived Organizational Support
Copyright (c) 2026 Shehar Bano, Guo Zhi Da https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Professional Development for Local Chinese Language Teachers in Pakistan
This study identifies three critical issues plaguing the professional development of local Chinese language teachers in Pakistan: the absence of systematic and localized teacher training programs, excessively heavy workloads that impede effective teaching and career growth, and a severe shortage of tailored, context-specific localized teaching resources. Adopting a rigorous mixed-methods research approach, the study incorporates a quantitative survey of 55 local Chinese language teachers across various educational institutions in Pakistan and in-depth semi-structured interviews with 10 key stakeholders, including experienced teachers and institute administrators, to collect comprehensive empirical data. The research constructs a theoretical framework that categorizes training, workload, and resources as core axial categories directly influencing teachers’ career development and overall job satisfaction. The findings further reveal that the key systemic challenges include the lack of sustained, locally adapted professional development initiatives, inadequate remuneration and job security, scarce relevant teaching materials aligned with Pakistani learners’ cultural and linguistic needs, and limited clear career advancement pathways. Based on the empirical insights, the study offers targeted, actionable recommendations to enhance institutional support systems, improve teacher compensation and job stability, develop localized teaching resources, and establish structured training mechanisms, with the ultimate aim of elevating the quality and ensuring the long-term sustainability of Chinese language education in Pakistan.
Chinese Language Teachers, Professional Development, Pakistan, Teacher Training, Localization.
Copyright (c) 2026 Uswa Naheed (于梦悦) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Navigating the 17 Sustainable Development Goals Landscape in Pakistan: Progress, Pitfalls, and Prospects
The adoption of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development by the United Nations in 2015 marked a global commitment to address poverty, inequality, environmental degradation, and governance challenges through the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Pakistan adopted this agenda in 2016, integrating the SDGs into its Vision 2025 framework and establishing institutional mechanisms at both the federal and provincial levels. Despite these efforts, progress has remained uneven, with persistent challenges in poverty reduction, gender equality, and institutional governance. This study employs a qualitative purposive content analysis of interview data to critically examine Pakistan’s SDG trajectory. The purposive sampling approach enabled the collection of diverse perspectives from stakeholders engaged in education, governance, civil society, and grassroots activism. Content analysis was applied to categorize responses across the 17 SDGs, highlighting both achievements and gaps. The results reveal a dual narrative. On one hand, grassroots practices such as plastic reduction, composting, tree planting, and NGO-led initiatives demonstrate growing awareness and localized progress, particularly in SDG 3 (Health), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities), and SDG 13 (Climate Action). On the other hand, systemic weaknesses persist in areas such as SDG 5 (Gender Equality), SDG 7 (Clean Energy), and SDG 16 (Institutions), where cultural barriers, weak governance, and limited resources hinder advancement. Goals such as SDG 14 (Life Below Water) remain largely neglected in national discourse. The study suggests that Pakistan’s SDG journey requires both bottom-up community action and top-down institutional reforms. Key recommendations include integrating grassroots practices into national monitoring frameworks, strengthening governance and accountability mechanisms, investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, and fostering inclusive policies that address gender and social inequalities. By situating Pakistan’s experience within the broader South Asian context, the paper underscores the importance of resilience, inclusivity, and digital governance in advancing Agenda 2030.
Climate Action, Gender Equality, Governance, Pakistan, Resilience, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Nelofar Ikram, Dr. Safia Bano, Dr. Erum Muzaffar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Socioeconomic Impact of Tuberculosis in District Swabi, Pakistan: A Quantitative Study
This article examined patients’ perceptions of the impact of Tuberculosis (TB) on their socioeconomic lives and analyzed whether effects differ by gender. The data were collected from 100 TB patients through simple random sampling. Chi-square and Kendall’s Tau-b tests were used to examine the association among variables. The association of patients’ perceptions was found to be significant and positive, with TB patients being stigmatized (P < 0.05, Tb = 0.414), socially isolated (P < 0.05, Tb = 0.139), and family members avoiding meals with the TB patients (P < 0.05, Tb = 0.363). Furthermore, the association of patients’ perception was found significant and positive with TB, adding financial burden on the family (P < 0.05, Tb=0.223), patients borrow money for treatment (P < 0.05, Tb =0.360), and sell the productive assets (P < 0.05, Tb =0.132). The results also showed that, after controlling for patients' gender, the association between patients’ perceptions and the social impacts of TB is significant (P < 0.05) and more negative for females than for males (for male TB = -0.272, for female TB = -0.324). Similarly, after controlling for patients' gender, the association between patients’ perceptions and the economic impacts of TB was significant (P < 0.05) and more negative for females than for males (for male TB = -0.242, for female TB = -0.332). The results concluded that the adverse impacts of TB were higher on females than on males.
Tuberculosis (TB), Social Impact, Economic Impact, Gender, Swabi, Pakistan
Copyright (c) 2026 Hizra Jehan Zaib, Hiba Khalil, Dr. Muhammad Bilal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
18th Constitutional Amendment: Challenges and Controversies
The 18th Constitutional Amendment, enacted in Pakistan in 2010, is widely regarded as one of the most consequential reforms in the country’s constitutional history. It aimed to restore the parliamentary character of the 1973 Constitution, reduce the concentration of authority in the presidency, and devolve powers to provinces in order to strengthen democratic governance and improve service delivery. While the amendment is celebrated for enhancing provincial autonomy and limiting unilateral presidential interventions, its implementation has generated a range of practical challenges and political controversies. A key research gap persists in systematically evaluating the operational difficulties that emerged after devolution, including administrative capacity constraints, fiscal imbalances, policy fragmentation across provinces, and contestations over jurisdiction between the federation and provinces. This study addresses that gap by analyzing the principal challenges faced during implementation and the controversies shaping perceptions of the amendment’s impact on federalism. Guided by decentralization and federalism theories, the study conceptualizes the amendment as an institutional intervention whose outcomes depend on variables such as administrative capacity, financial resources, policy consistency, and federal–provincial coordination. Employing a qualitative methodology based on legal texts, policy documents, government reports, and academic literature, the study finds that the amendment strengthened democratic institutions and provincial authority, but its effectiveness has been constrained by uneven capacity across provinces, limited fiscal space relative to devolved responsibilities, weak coordination mechanisms, and recurring political disputes. The findings underscore the need for cooperative federalism mechanisms that balance provincial empowerment with national cohesion and minimum service standards.
18th Amendment, Constitutional Reforms, Devolution, Federalism, Governance, Pakistan Politics, Provincial Autonomy, Public Policy Making.
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Nusrat Rehman, Faiza Mansoor https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Comparative Analysis of Trump-Biden Administration Foreign Policy towards Pakistan: Contemporary and Future Prospects
The relations between the US and Pakistan have always been dynamic and played crucial role in South Asia's regional stability. To determine the continuation of the historical engagements, this study assesses the crucial US-Pakistan ties and what challenges both nations have faced during first term of Presidents Donald Trump and subsequent President Joe Biden administration. It also evaluates the contemporary Pak-US relations during Trump 2.0 and the future associated aspects. The imperative Pak-US partnership has been studied using a qualitative study methodology. In a bid to evaluate political participation, cross-cultural interactions, and security cooperation, the study also examined personality influence of Trump and Biden. States take action to further their interests and persuade other nations to act in facilitation of those goals. Since the 9/11 attacks, Pakistan has drawn attention from US policy circles, which includes both areas of shared and divergent interest. First, the South Asian security mechanism depends on Pakistan's paramount role in promoting regional stability, economic cooperation, and friendly relations with major powers. Second, there is a need for a clear position on counterterrorism initiatives, the Indo-US strategic cooperation to counter China. The findings reveal that the stability of South Asia depends on balanced relations between Islamabad and Washington and issues pertaining to asymmetric regional security.
Pakistan-US Relations, Comparative Analysis of President Trump-Biden Policy, Strategic Partnership, Neorealism and Constructivism, South Asia Regional Stability
Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Maira Afzazze Saeed, Basit Ali, Ahmad Ibrahim https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The Sound of Conflict: A Quantitative Analysis of Editorial Tone in Liberal, State-Aligned and Conservative Media Framing of the Iran-Israel Conflict (2023-2025)
This research consists of a quantitative content analysis of the editorial tone employed by three ideologically opposing newspapers, namely, Haaretz, a liberal Israeli newspaper; Kayhan, an International state-aligned Iranian newspaper; and The Wall Street Journal, a conservative American newspaper, on the Iran-Israel conflict between October 2023 and March 2025. Analyzing 677 editorials, the research is a systematic measurement of the sentiment positive, negative, and neutral across the countries of Iran, Israel, and the United States. Findings that proved statistically (using chi-square) that there is a profound and predictable ideological polarization in sentiment. Haaretz is overwhelmingly negative to Israel, 97.6% Kayhan is universally negative to Israel, 100% and the US, 94.7% while being positive to Iran, 72.4%. WSJ is strongly positive to Israel, 84.8% and is negative to Iran, 68.5%. The results demonstrate the importance and quantifiability of editorial tone as a critical instrument of the use of media as ideological expression that each media outlet uses to fulfil different geopolitical mandates of internal critique, resistance mobilization or strategic alliance reinforcement.
Editorial Tone, Bias of Ideologies, Media Framing, Iran-Israel Conflict.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mashhood Ur Rehman, Dr. Abida Noureen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Exploring Inattentive Symptoms, Anxiety and Safety Needs in a Child: A Clinical Case Study
This case study presents a 7-year-old boy who was referred for concerns related to inattention, daytime urinary incontinence, frequent urination, and strong fear of using the toilet alone. His mother also reported forgetfulness, easy distraction, and a clear decline in school performance over the past six months. These problems started gradually but became more noticeable with time. The child also showed signs of emotional discomfort and appeared guarded during early clinical sessions. He avoided certain situations, especially those related to bathroom use, and often needed reassurance from adults. A comprehensive psychological assessment was conducted using clinical interviews with the child and parent, behavioral observation, and standardized assessment tools. The results showed symptoms consistent with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, predominantly inattentive presentation, along with elevated anxiety symptoms. The child showed difficulty with attention, working memory, and emotional regulation. During the therapeutic process, the child slowly began to share experiences that made him feel unsafe and fearful, which appeared to increase his anxiety and avoidance behaviors. A structured and multidisciplinary intervention plan was provided. This included cognitive behavioral therapy; play based therapeutic techniques, emotional regulation support, and occupational therapy. The main goal was to help the child feel safe, reduce anxiety, improve emotional expression, and strengthen attention and daily functioning. The child was also supported in developing coping skills and confidence in managing difficult situations. Over a period of six months, the child showed noticeable improvement. His anxiety reduced, emotional expression improved, and his ability to focus and participate in daily activities increased. He became more comfortable in therapy and showed better adjustment in daily routines and school related tasks. This case highlights the importance of careful psychological assessment and timely intervention when children present with attention and anxiety related concerns. Providing emotional safety, consistent support, and multidisciplinary care can help improve both emotional wellbeing and functional outcomes in children.
Phobia, Fear, Inattentive, CBT, Emotional Regulation
Copyright (c) 2026 Zainab Shahin Alam, Maham Rasheed, Diya Iyad Mohammad Abu Sultan, Mohammed Abdelbadie Ismail https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Care as Collateral: Maternal Inheritance and Organisational Violence in Arundhati Roy’s Mother Mary Comes to Me
Arundhati Roy’s Mother Mary Comes to Me (2025) has primarily been read as a memoir of maternal conflict and personal inheritance. This article proposes a different critical approach, reading the text as an analysis of care as an organisational regime in which love, discipline, and violence are structurally entangled. Rather than treating maternal harm as an aberration or trauma alone, the article situates it within overlapping institutions of family, faith, and feminism, demonstrating how care functions as a mechanism through which injury is normalised and responsibility redistributed. Through close textual analysis, the study examines the ethical limits of contextual explanation, particularly where genealogies of violence risk softening accountability. It further interrogates the memoir’s tendency to narrativise injury as formative, attending to moments in which suffering is assimilated into narrative coherence and others in which it remains resistant to meaning. The article contends that Mother Mary Comes to Me performs its most critical work not by resolving these tensions but by staging their impasse, offering a rigorous account of inheritance, defiance, and the political organisation of care.
Care, Maternal Inheritance, Feminist Ethics, Violence and Accountability, Narrative Organisation, Arundhati Roy.
Copyright (c) 2026 Mahin Wahla https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Father–Child Communication in Migrant Families and Adult Attachment Among Young Pakistani Adults
Father–child communication constitutes a critical relational mechanism through which attachment orientations are shaped across development. In migrant families, prolonged paternal absence may disrupt everyday emotional exchanges, with enduring implications for attachment security during emerging adulthood. Drawing on attachment theory and family systems perspectives, the present study examined the association between father–child communication and adult attachment orientations among young Pakistani adults raised in migrant family contexts, and tested family functioning as a mediating mechanism. Using a cross-sectional correlational design, data were collected from 600 Pakistani young adults aged 18–23 years who reported a history of paternal labor migration during childhood. Participants completed Urdu-validated measures of father–child communication, adult attachment anxiety and avoidance, and family functioning. Results indicated that higher perceived quality of father–child communication was significantly associated with lower attachment anxiety and avoidance and greater attachment security. Mediation analyses revealed that family functioning partially mediated the relationship between father–child communication and adult attachment security. These findings advance attachment and family systems theory by demonstrating culturally specific relational pathways through which paternal communication shapes adult attachment security in migration-affected families. The study underscores the importance of culturally responsive family interventions and paternal engagement practices in migration-affected contexts.
Father–Child Communication, Adult Attachment, Migrant Families, Emerging Adulthood, Pakistan, Family Functioning
Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Afzal, Sherkhonov Umarali Tokhirovich, Raharinirina Hery Valisoa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Analyzing the Effects of Social Support and Self-Efficacy on Stress Management among Physical Education Teachers working at Secondary School Level
The main purpose of this study Effects of social support and self-efficacy on stress management among physical education teachers working at secondary schools of District Dera Ismail Khan. Therefore, the cross-sectional approached employed by the researcher. The Data were collected from 495 male and female physical education teachers selected through stratified random sampling. Standardized instruments were used to measure perceived social support, self-efficacy, and stress management, and the data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS Version-32) For the data analysis the researcher were used Statistical tools descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, t-tests, and ANOVA. On the basis of results, the findings Found that the teachers reported moderate to high levels of social support, self-efficacy, and stress management. Significant positive relationships were found between social support and stress management, as well as between self-efficacy and stress management, with self-efficacy emerging as the stronger predictor. Multiple regression analysis confirmed that both variables independently and jointly contributed to effective stress management. Demographic factors such as gender, teaching experience, and educational level showed significant variations, while ethnicity did not influence the study variables. On the basis of results, this study highlighted that Social Support and Self-Efficacy has significance impact upon Stress Management among Physical Education Teachers working at Secondary School Level.
Social Support, Self-Efficacy Stress, Management and Physical Education Teachers
Copyright (c) 2026 Abdul Basit, Nasira Parveen, Muhammad Ijaz, Ghulshan Tahira, Muhammad Aqeel, Tuheed Ullah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Market Competition, Industrial Policy and Corporate Risk-Taking: Evidence from Pakistani Enterprises
This study evaluates the impact of industrial policy and market competition on corporate risk-taking using data from Pakistani firms. This study reveals that industrial policy (IP), measured by IP-hat, consistently reduces corporate risk-taking across multiple model specifications. The relationship between market competition (HHI) and risk-taking shows methodological sensitivity, while Pooled OLS estimates indicate significant negative effects from both high and low competition levels, these effects become statistically insignificant in fixed effects models that control for firm-level heterogeneity. This suggests that observed competition effects may stem from time-invariant firm characteristics rather than dynamic market changes. Furthermore, we find no significant interaction between industrial policy and market competition, indicating that policy effects operate independently of market structure. These results highlight the risk-suppressing nature of IP in emerging economies and underscore the importance of methodological considerations in competition studies. The findings carry important implications for policymakers designing industrial policies that balance firm support with innovation incentives in developing markets.
Industrial Policy; Corporate Risk-Taking; Market Competition; Pakistani Firms; Fixed Effects Model
Copyright (c) 2026 Tauseeq Muhammad Sabar (杨孝), Nawaz Rao Sabir (勇敢) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The Impact of Early Speech Language Intervention on Language Development in Children with Speech Delays: A Quantitative Study of Parental Perceptions
Early speech-language intervention (ESLI) plays a crucial role in addressing speech delays in children, enhancing their communication skills and overall development. This study explores the impact of ESLI on children's language development, focusing on parental perceptions of the therapy's effectiveness. The research was conducted in a diverse sample of parents whose children received speech therapy for various speech delays. Using a quantitative descriptive design, data were collected from 120 parents via a structured Likert-scale questionnaire. The sampling technique used in the study was non-probability convenience sampling, which allowed for the inclusion of 120 parents who were accessible and willing to participate in the study. The results indicate significant improvements in vocabulary, sentence structure, and speech clarity, with mean scores ranging from 3.75 to 3.91. Parents expressed strong satisfaction with the therapy's effect on their child's language comprehension and communication confidence. However, challenges related to maintaining child motivation and applying skills outside therapy sessions were identified, with mean scores ranging from 3.50 to 3.75. These findings emphasize the importance of early, personalized interventions and active parental involvement in reinforcing therapy at home.
Early Speech-Language Intervention, Speech Delays, Language Development, Parental Perceptions, Therapy Outcomes, Communication Skills
Copyright (c) 2025 Waqar Un Nisa, Misbah Tariq, Muhammad Haroon Manj, Muhammad Hadi Haideri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
How Religious Teachings can help Lower Poverty and Unemployment: A Social and Educational Approach
This study, entitled “The Role of Religious Teachings in Reducing Poverty and Unemployment: An Educational and Social Approach,” explores the significance of religious principles in addressing economic challenges. In the religion of Islam, great emphasis is placed on the importance of work and employment as means of preserving human dignity, ensuring independence from others, and fulfilling one’s basic needs through lawful earnings. Numerous examples demonstrate that even the divine prophets, despite their great mission of conveying Almighty Allah message to humankind, engaged in various professions so as not to be dependent on others and to provide for themselves and their families. This clearly indicates that Islam strongly advocates the eradication of poverty. From a methodological perspective, this research is applied in purpose and descriptive in nature, conducted through a literature review of Quranic verses, prophetic traditions (Hadith), and relevant scholarly works.The findings reveal that religious teachings play a significant and influential role in reducing poverty and unemployment. By implementing these teachings and engaging in lawful, ethical labor consistent with Islamic principles, poverty and deprivation can be eliminated from society, leading Muslims toward a prosperous and dignified life free from destitution.
Educational; Poverty; Religious Teachings; Unemployment; Zakat
Copyright (c) 2025 Nasratullah Nasrat, Mohammad Aziz Mohammadi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Psychosocial Determinant of Diabetes Management among Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Focus group discussion
Background: Diabetes distress, poor self-care, and impaired coping are the common psychological and behavioral issues that have always been known to complicate the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Mindfulness-based therapies, especially Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), have demonstrated potential to alter these outcomes although qualitative data are needed to supplement quantitative data. Aim: The study has investigated the attitudes of the stakeholders regarding the psychological and behavioral impact of T2DM and the applicability of mindfulness-based interventions. Method: A purposively selected sample size of 6 participants including one doctor, dietitian, physiotherapist, clinical psychologist, patient with T2DM, and caregiver participated in a qualitative focus group discussion. The FGD guide was prepared based on searching literature systematically and attended the top themes of distress, self-care, coping, psychological flexibility, and social support. The two-hour meeting took place online, was recorded, and transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using themes. Findings: Emotional distress, irregular self-care practices, social support were observed to have displayed key difficulties associated with them. The participants also pointed to the usefulness of mindfulness and ACT-derived interventions in improving coping, psychological flexibility, as well as adjusting towards following self-care regimes, with a need to extend such intervention models to take into account the cultural specifics of the targeted population. Conclusion: Mindfulness-informed interventions, and in particular, ACT-based intervention programs, have a potential to positively affect psychological and behavioral outcomes of T2DM illness management through mitigating distress and improving self-care and support systems.
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Psychological Outcomes, Focus Group Discussion, Self-care.
Copyright (c) 2025 Faiza Batool, Dr. Anila Sadaf Mubashir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
India's Missile Development and Regional Arms Control
The South Asian security landscape has been influenced by India's relentless pursuit of missile development and modernization. This research critically analyze the growing arsenal of India, its ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and new hypersonic technology. It also analyze how the missile race destabilizes the region and makes the process of arms control more complicated while also analyze the implications for Pakistan. The paper argues that India's missile development and nuclear modernization under the pretext of countering China, which inadvertently results in a reactive dynamic in Pakistan, however, India's missile range is not restricted to South Asia, which means that its prestige-oriented logic has resulted in the qualitative and quantitative improvement of its missile resources. It is this action-reaction loop that drives an arms race, undermining strategic stability, enhancing crisis instability, and escalating risks, especially in a region already defined by historical tensions and nuclear rivalry. The paper also examines how these developments pose a setback to regional arms control efforts and confidence-building efforts, which eventually contribute to South Asian insecurity. The paper, through an empirical and policy-oriented study, highlights the need for renewed dialogue and arms control measures to curb the destabilizing effects of missile competition in South Asia.
Arms Control, Hypersonic Missiles, Ballistic Missiles, MIRV, Brahmos, South Asia, Anti-Satellite
Copyright (c) 2025 Muhammad Shahzad Akram, Moneeb Mir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Humanitarian Dimensions of the Islamic Law of War: The Case of Prisoners of War
This qualitative study will be trying to explore the humanitarian aspects of Islamic law of war (Siyar) regarding prisoners of war (POWs) with the help of a comparison with international humanitarian law (IHL), especially the Geneva Conventions. Based on classical Islamic jurisprudence of the four major Sunni schools (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'i, Hanbali) and modern literature, this paper examines the convergence and divergence between Islamic and international legal rules involving treatment of POWs. By using a systemic analysis of primary Islamic sources, the Quran, Hadith, and works of classical jurists, and through comparing Geneva Convention III, this study finds a significant overlap in the principles of humanitarianism, and identifies methodological differences. Results indicate that the two systems have underlying similarities in their dedication to humane treatment, protection of civilians, and controlled disposal of prisoners, but these differ in the outcomes and permissible actions that can be implemented. This paper builds upon the literature of legal pluralism by showing that the classical Islamic standards of humanitarianism have directions for the modern POW protection debate. The study has important suggestions to harmonization of international law, military pedagogy in Muslim predominant countries and humanitarian interfaith dialogue.
Islamic Law of War, Prisoners of War, International Humanitarian Law, Geneva Conventions, Siyar
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Jaweed Iqbal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Public-Private Partnerships for Major Projects in Afghanistan: The Role of Regional Cooperation in their Implementation
Public–Private Partnership (PPP) is a long-term contract between private enterprises and governments for providing public assets or services, in which the private sector assumes substantial risk, manages the project, and bears all associated responsibilities and costs. In essence, PPP refers to an agreement between public institutions—either central or local units—and private investors, whereby the latter undertakes the financing, construction, or procurement of a portion of a public service or facility and later manages it. The purpose of this research is to identify the sectors in which PPP-based investment can positively influence national and regional development, and to examine regional examples, cooperation, and opportunities in this regard, offering necessary recommendations. This is a qualitative–descriptive study that relies on secondary data collected from credible books, journals, reports, previous studies, and publications from regional and international institutions and organizations. The findings show that Afghanistan urgently needs the implementation of major projects in five key sectors—infrastructure, water and energy, health, tourism, and mining. At the same time, regional countries can play a constructive role by providing financial assistance, technical expertise, capacity building and transfer of skills, establishing free-trade areas, promoting bilateral and multilateral cooperation, extending diplomatic support, and contributing to policy and planning frameworks. Collectively, such collaboration could help alleviate unemployment in Afghanistan, boost GDP, and pave the way towards economic stability.
Public–Private Partnership (PPP), Regional Cooperation, Infrastructure, Tourism, Mining, Health, Energy
Copyright (c) 2026 Abdul Rahman Dard, Aklil Raheen, Naqeeb Ullah Atal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Efficiency of Collaborative Learning in different Class Settings
Collaborative learning has indeed been esteemed as a pedagogical pathway that strengthens the students' commitment to their work and favorable academic achievement. The present paper focuses on the divergent classroom settings in which collaborative learning takes hold and the divergent age groups and subjects involved. In the course of working through the literature and empirical studies, this paper puts forth the advantages and drawbacks that may accompany collaborative learning pedagogy. The results show that while collaborative learning is indeed effective, successful implementation relies on parameters such as classroom orientation, subject matter, and developmental level of the students. These aspects are subsequently discussed with the paper, which converses about how collaborative learning experiences can be created for better application and potential avenues for future research.
Collaborative Learning, Student Engagement, Academic Results, Class Settings, Education, Collaborative Teaching, Group Mobility
Copyright (c) 2025 Prof. Abdul Jalil Kahdistani, Bahramuddin Hamidi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The Russian Resurgence: Strategic Objectives and Political Maneuvering in the Middle East
Middle East is a conflict hub where major powers institutionalized its role and strategies. Russian engagement in the Middle East projects its interests in the region vis a vis other major power. The study concludes that while reestablishing itself Russia has being face challenges both at domestic and international level. From the historical perspective hard power is not an option instead; Kremlin is focusing on furthering its power and position through hard and soft power projection in the Middle East. This is based on qualitative methodology for which data from multiple sources is vigorously analyzed. This study has taken its theoretical insight from Offensive Realism with The purpose of this study is to examine the complex nature of Moscow’s foreign policy through the lens of Realist theory in order to understand the origins of Russia’s resurgence. It explores the revival of Russian foreign policy following the Cold War and highlights the growing relevance of Offensive Realism and its core principles as analytical tools in this context.
Russian Resurgence, Strategies Objectives, Policies, Middle East, Major Powers, Realism.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hamayun Mahmood, Hanzala Khan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Rohingya Refugees Repatriation and Natural Disasters – A Crisis within a Crisis
The recent 7.7 magnitude earthquake in central Myanmar on March 28th has critically exacerbated the already protracted stalemate in the Rohingya repatriation process. This analysis contends that the natural disaster has diverted the Myanmar military regime's attention and resources towards internal disaster management and political stability, effectively deprioritizing the planned return of refugees. As the earthquake has intensified existing hurdles by damaging crucial infrastructure, eroding the perceived safety of Rakhine State among Rohingya in Cox's Bazar, the international aid has been redirected away from the refugee crisis. Furthermore, the regime's ongoing conflict with the Arakan Army in Rakhine and a flawed, non-inclusive repatriation framework continue to render return conditions unsafe and unsustainable. The paper concludes that the convergence of this natural catastrophe with persistent political and humanitarian failures has effectively halted repatriation prospects, placing an increasing strain on Bangladesh and necessitating an urgent, rights-based international response.
Rohingya, Rakhine, Tatmadaw, Cox's Bazar, Cyclone Nargis, Cyclone Mocha, Statelessness
Copyright (c) 2025 Kaleem Ullah, Colin Tint Lwin a.k.a Zhang Tian https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Navigating Geopolitical Pressures: Minority Rights in Bangladesh’s Regional and Global Contexts
<span style="font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ascii-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">This study investigates the dynamics of minority rights in Bangladesh, situated within regional diplomatic interference and international pressures. It concentrates on Hindu societies who live in Bangladesh, a majority Muslim country and discovers blueprints of inspirations that transnational dogmas exert on native communal associations, media exposure, and governmental reactions. This study combines a qualitative method of interviews with religious authorities, scholars, political leaders and journalists including significant content reviewing of media output, research articles, policies and non-government publications to investigate interconnections amongst external pressures, governance and societal resilience. The paper finds that even as extreme Hinduva ideas and discourses within India fashioned a sense of insecurity amongst Bangladeshi Hindus, although interfaith historical harmony is generally prevailed amongst the majority Muslims. Global powers such as Western actors and media tend to decrease the complications of socio-political realities. However, it wires Islamophobic ideas and contributes to the unsuspecting justification of global Hinduva extreme ideologies. The paper highlights the necessity to establish strong domestic legal systems, interfaith solidarity, regional diplomacy, and media reform. It posits that the ability of Bangladesh to protect minority rights, uphold secularism, and endure external forces is important not only to internal unity but also to the confidence of South Asian sovereignty.
Bangladesh, Minority Rights, Geopolitical Pressures, Global Engagements and Regional Dynamics
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammad Amimul Ahsan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
The Role of Sociodemographic Parameters in Shaping Epistemological Beliefs among Pre-service Teachers - A Structural Equation Modeling Analysis
Epistemological beliefs (EBs) “individuals’ conceptions of knowledge acquisition” profoundly shape teaching practices, yet their development in non-Western contexts remains underexplored. This study investigates how demographic factors (gender, residence, academic maturation, and academic performance) influence talent- versus effort-oriented EBs among pre-service teachers in Pakistan, a context marked by urban-rural divides and gendered educational norms. Using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), data from 330 pre-service teachers revealed three key findings: urban-rural disparities and gendered socialization critically mediate EBs, with rural participants and males endorsing talent-centric views, while urban residents and females emphasized effort-driven epistemologies; academic maturation (semester level) significantly predicted effort-oriented beliefs, demonstrating the transformative role of pedagogical training; talent and effort exhibited dynamic interdependence, challenging binary EB frameworks and highlighting their coexistence in socioculturally finical contexts. Methodologically, this study contributes a culturally adapted SEM framework, validating Schommer’s (1990) theory in South Aisa particularly in Pakistan and addressing critiques of Western-centric models. Practically, the findings advocate for equity-driven reforms in teacher education, such as bridging urban-rural resource gaps and integrating reflective pedagogies to nurture educators who view knowledge as malleable. By centering sociocultural context, this research advances global EB scholarship and offers actionable strategies for fostering equitable, inquiry-based classrooms in underserved regions.
Epistemological Beliefs, Global South, Sociocultural Determinants, Structural Equation Modeling; Teacher Education, Urban-Rural Disparities
Copyright (c) 2025 Sagheer Ahmad, Afshan Naseem, Rafia Irfan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Assessing Pakistani Bank's Efficiency, A Data Envelopment Analysis Study on Post-M&As
Large-scale M&A involved in the banking sector as the primary target have been initiated by nations globally throughout the last decade of the 20th century. A merger is a corporate restructuring tactic that has a wide range of effects on the business's performance. This study analyzed the impact of M&A on the banking industry in Pakistan from 2007 to 2017, covering four years before and after (-4, +4 years) each M&As and calculated the average efficiency score for before and after merger periods. To examine the impact of merger and acquisition on bank efficiency, this study employs DEA method in R software under both CRS and VRS. Three different input and output frameworks are applied to estimate each bank technical efficiency, pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency. The results reveal a mixed impact of M&As on banks efficiency. The result reveals that few banks showed improve efficiency after M&A technique, while many banks face increased inefficiency after M&As. However, In conclusion the research findings depict that Pakistani Banks has not got any beneficial change after mergers and acquisitions (M&As).
Merger & Acquisition, Data envelopment analysis (DEA), TE, PTE, SE
Copyright (c) 2025 Rao Sabir Nawaz (勇敢) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Assessing the Quality of Teaching Methodology in Secondary School Physics: Evidence from Bahawalpur, Pakistan
Quality teaching is a cornerstone of effective education and a central determinant of students’ achievement worldwide. In developing countries such as Pakistan, science education—especially Physics—faces critical challenges due to traditional teaching methods, limited resources, and lack of professional training for teachers. This study investigates the quality of teaching methodology in Physics classrooms across public-sector secondary schools of Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Drawing upon a stratified proportionate random sample of 115 principals, 139 teachers, and 800 students, data were collected through a validated questionnaire grounded in internationally recognized indicators of quality teaching. Confirmatory factor analysis established the reliability and validity of the instrument (Cronbach’s α = 0.85). Findings highlight stark differences in perceptions: while teachers rated their practices highly, both students and principals reported dissatisfaction, particularly regarding activity-based learning, student-centered pedagogy, questioning strategies, and formative assessment. The study stresses the immediate need for reforms in teacher professional training, integration of modern pedagogies, and provision of resources to align Physics teaching with constructivist and student-centered paradigms. The paper concludes with recommendations for policy makers, curriculum developers, and teacher training institutions.
Quality Teaching, Physics Education, Secondary Schools, Teaching Methodology, Pakistan
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Muhammad Khan, Dr. Farkhunda Rasheed Choudhary2, Muhammad Ali https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Youth Perspectives on Climate Crisis Awareness and Human Security: Analyzing Pakistan's Human and Economic Security Landscape
This study examines the relationship between climate awareness, economic and human security in Pakistan. The climate crisis has become a crucial topic in national security discussions, with experts and politicians stressing the urgency of taking immediate action to mitigate its effects. The National Security Policy (NSP) 2022-2026 is one of the first security documents in Pakistan to recognize the interconnectedness of human and economic security as key components of national security doctrine. In this framework, climate change is an independent variable in the realm of security, as it is causing a shift in the economic and human security framework of Pakistan. The study reveals that the youth, who make up over 48 percent of the population, recognizes the threat it poses to human and economic security in Pakistan. In this context, lack of awareness on governmental policies related to climate change, and not treating the threat of climate change as a national security issue are pertinent issues linked with the national security paradigm.
Climate Change, Human Security, Economic Security, Rising Temperature
Copyright (c) 2025 Dr. Maryam Azam, Dr. Yawar Hayat Shah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/
Impactism (A Proposed Purpose-Driven Alternative to Capitalism, Socialism, Communism, and Fascism)
The twentieth century witnessed the dominance of capitalism, socialism, communism, and fascism, each claiming to ensure prosperity or justice but revealing deep flaws. This paper introduces Impactism, a human-centered paradigm that places purpose and measurable impact at the core of progress. It presents a four-level framework—individual, family, business, and government. At the individual level, it emphasizes purpose as the basis of resilience and contribution. Families extend this through legacy and social engagement. Businesses are being redefined as purpose-driven enterprises that align profit with social and environmental solutions. Governments are envisioned as partners addressing inequality, climate change, fragile health systems, and digital divides. Together, these levels form a holistic model that bridges theory and practice, offering pathways for global transformation. By embedding purpose into human, social, economic, and political life, Impactism provides an integrative and future-oriented framework that guides humanity toward inclusivity, dignity, and lasting progress in the twenty-first century.
Impactism; Human-Centered Paradigm; Purpose; Four-Level Framework; Global Transformation; Lasting Progress
Copyright (c) 2025 Jibran Bashir https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/