Journal of Development and Social Sciences

Evaluating Confidence in Government and its Determining and Contributing Factors: A Case Study of Pakistan using World Value Survey

Yasir Zada Khan, Tehmina Asad — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This paper assesses public confidence in the Government of Pakistan and examines the key factors influencing this confidence, as identified in existing literature. Using data from the 7th wave of the World Values Survey (2017–2020), the analysis is conducted in two stages. First, Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping is employed to visualize the spatial distribution of average confidence levels across multiple dimensions, including trust in government, armed forces, judiciary, democratic and religious political systems, business ownership preferences, and overall happiness. The subsequent part of the study employs ordered-logistic regression analysis to quantify coefficient values corresponding to the determinants and contributing factors of confidence levels. These coefficients are extrapolated as mean values representative of the entire nation. Furthermore, the study generates average marginal effects of the variables, which aid in interpreting the coefficients in terms of probabilities. The study's findings underscore the pivotal role of public institutions in fostering substantial government confidence. Key determinants such as public institute confidence, income levels, education, health, life and job security, political engagement, happiness, life satisfaction, and perceptions about corruption all significantly influence and contribute to the public's confidence in the government.

The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership Styles and Workplace Dynamics among University Students

Qudsia Manzoor, Huma Younis, Zuhair Qudoos — Thu, 02 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

Emotional intelligence (EI) has gained increasing scholarly attention as a core factor shaping leadership effectiveness and organizational interactions. While substantial research has been conducted in Western contexts, its significance among university students in Pakistan has yet to be adequately examined. This study explores the influence of EI on leadership styles—specifically transformational, transactional, and laissez-faire—and on workplace-like dynamics such as collaboration, conflict management, and team satisfaction. Employing a mixed-methods design, data were collected from 350 university students active in student organizations. Quantitative findings, based on the Mayer-Salovey-Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT) and the Multifactor Leadership Questionnaire (MLQ-5X), indicated strong associations between EI and transformational leadership (r = .52, p < .001) as well as between EI and group satisfaction (r = .45, p < .001). Complementary interviews with 20 student leaders underscored the role of empathy, cultural awareness, and adaptability in fostering inclusive and cooperative dynamics. The results highlight the potential of EI to strengthen leadership capacities within Pakistan’s collectivist educational context, suggesting that targeted EI development should be integrated into university leadership and professional training programs.

Stigmatization and Social Exclusion of Transgender Individuals in Sargodha: A Thematic Analysis

Sehrish Batool, Dr. Asiya Anwar, Sahrish Andleeb — Sat, 04 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

The purpose of the study is to explore how language, body language, and social behavior in Sargodha reflect transphobic attitudes and contribute to the social exclusion of transgender. People who are identified as transgender frequently face major obstacles, such as limited access to healthcare and employment possibilities, illiteracy, and domestic violence among many others. Due to their long absence from legal recognition for a long time, it has been increasingly difficult to comprehend their issues and evaluate the success of initiatives aimed at enhancing their socioeconomic circumstances. The study was qualitative in nature, and data were gathered using the case study approach. Data was collected through brief interviews of Transgender individuals from Sargodha. Data analysis was done using thematic analysis. The study's findings reveal that transgender individuals frequently face early rejection from their biological family, with fathers usually being more aggressive than mothers. Such rejection encourages peers and extended family to humiliate them, which often leads to school dropout. Due to stigmatization and shame, many are sent off to the transgender community, separating them from their homes. Another finding highlights that in public places, they are rarely treated with respect and women in particular are often unwilling to interact with them, even in official settings. This study suggested creating separate forums or designated space for transgender individuals to provide them with safe social environment.

An Icon of Faith and Imperial Hegemony: Cathedral Church of Resurrection, Lahore

Engr. Mohammad Ali — Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

To study the diverse and rich religious cultural heritage of Lahore, Cathedral Church of Resurrection is a good example. A good example of colonial agenda of imposing and legitimizing power through architecture. “The Cathedral Church of Resurrection, Lahore, also known as Lahore Cathedral, is an Anglican cathedral in the heart of Lahore, Pakistan. It was built on The Mall in 1887, opposite the Lahore High Court…The cathedral is in the Neo-Gothic style of architecture.” The method used is qualitative. Social Constructivism is used through interview and site visit. The Cathedral Church of Resurrection is a treasure trove of history of British India. It clears many misunderstandings regarding the Christians of Lahore. We come to know about the influential religious figures of colonial era. It gives us a peek into the lifestyle and religious practices of the Christian community. Lahore is fortunate to have Gothic architecture in the city. Lahore Cathedral imparts grandeur to The Mall and old city. Christian minority contribution in education is immense and it needs to be revived.

Safe Practices of Supplements Use as a Protective Factor for Menstrual Symptoms: Insight from Varsity Female Athletes

Sahar Fatima, Dr. Asif Ali, Muhammad Afaq — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

The study examined the role of supplementation knowledge, attitudes and practices in relation to the menstrual symptoms among the elite female university athletes. By using a cross-sectional design, data was collected from 116 athletes age ranges from 18 to 25 years from 5 different universities in Lahore. The questionnaire utilized were composed of demographics section, the menstrual symptoms questionnaire (MSQ) and the knowledge, attitude and practice (KEP) scale. Regression analysis revealed that while the overall models predict the spasmodic and congestive dysmenorrhea were significant (p<.001), only supplementation practices were significant predictor. Higher practices scores were associated with the reduced severity of the spasmodic dysmenorrhea and lower severity of congestive dysmenorrhea whereas knowledge and attitudes showed no significant association. These finding highlighted that the consistent and safe supplementation practices rather than awareness or perception alone serve as a protective factor against the menstrual symptoms among the female athletes. This stressed the necessity for behavior focused interventions and the professional guidance to promote the evidence-based supplementation practices that can support both menstrual health and the athletic performance in the female athletes.

Improving Maternal Health: Assessing the Impact of Nutritional Supplements to Combat Malnutrition

Maryam Shahid, Dr. Farhana Nosheen, Dr. Anam Afzal — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This research aimed to determine the micronutrient deficiency in pregnant and lactating women in pregnant and lactating women at District Toba Tek Singh, Faisalabad, Punjab, Pakistan by utilizing anthropomorphic measurements and biomedical tests. . A convenient sampling technique was used with 160 patients. Two groupd were made with ≤ 6 months post-pregnant lactating women and pregnant women in the 2nd or 3rd Trimester. Group A received lipid-based supplements, while Group B didn’t received supplements. A structured nutritional assessment performa was developed for data collected. This study revealed that the pregnant and lactating women from low socioeconomic backgrounds found micro nutritional deficiencies. However, upon comparing the control group to the interventional group, it was observed a significant improvement in the Hemoglobin (HGB) parameter among the women in latter stages. This study recommended that the health agencies and government ensure accessibility of supplements and promote awareness for pregnant and lactating women.

Local Peacebuilding in Afghanistan and the Prospects for Democracy After the U.S. Withdrawal

Dr. Maryam Azam, Ayesha Aqeel — Sun, 12 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This study examines localized peacebuilding strategies under Taliban rule and assesses the viability of democratic governance in Afghanistan after the U.S. withdrawal. Afghanistan's prolonged conflict is rooted in internal power struggles, socio-economic underdevelopment, and global geopolitical rivalries. The U.S.-led intervention post-2001 failed to achieve lasting peace, culminating in the Taliban’s return to power in 2021. Despite the end of formal warfare, underlying tensions and drivers of conflict remain. A qualitative approach is used, drawing on exiting literature, policy analysis, and reports to evaluate local peacebuilding under Taliban rule. The Taliban government has excluded women and minorities, suppressed political dissent, and alienated the international community. Peace efforts remain fragmented and localized, lacking formal support structures. Some communities have adopted informal conflict resolution mechanisms, but broader political reconciliation is absent. The regime's ideological rigidity and ties to extremist groups hinder democratic development. The study identifies that international actors should support grassroots peace initiatives and civil society resilience.

Exploring the Power of Social Support in Mitigating Anxiety among Undergraduate University Students

Nazia Yaqoob, Dr. Tanveer Kouser — Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

The current study intends to explore the effect of Social support on Anxiety in undergraduate university students. One of the most common mental health issues in undergraduate university students is the anxiety, and the world investigation reveals the increasing rates of anxiety in the last decade. The study was causal comparative in design. The population of the study was undergraduate students of public and private universities in Lahore district. Multistage cluster sampling technique was used to select the sample 677 of the study. A questionnaire was based on five point Likert scale to collect responses from undergraduate university students regarding the social support and Anxiety. Linear regression, t test and ANOVA were used for data analysis. The data indicated that social support has significant effects on Anxiety. Public and private university students’ perception regarding social support and Aanxiety has no difference. Public institutions may prioritize resource allocation for student support services, counseling centers, and mentorship opportunities.

Impact of Active Parental Engagement on Children’s Development and School Readiness: A Quantitative Survey of Parents in Public Schools of District Kamalia

Saima Tehseen, Dr. Syeda Samina Tahira, Dr. Gulfam Hassan — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

The purpose of this study was to assess parental involvement in early childhood education programs to prepare children for school. Parents' level of education influences the educational progress of their children. Educated parents tend to take a keen interest in their children's academic progress. They assist their children with homework at home, gaining a better understanding of the curriculum requirements for their children. Active parental engagement promotes children's physical, cognitive, emotional, and social development. The academic grades of children are based on the active collaboration of parents and teachers. A loving atmosphere develops learning and is beneficial for children's overall development. This research was descriptive and quantitative in nature. The population of this study were the parents of public schools in Kamalia. Sample was selected by stratified sampling technique, 10 parents from each 16 schools was selected to make the sample of 160 parents. Sample size was taken from www.survey.com with Confidence level 95% and confidence interval 7%. The data were collected through a structured questionnaire. The mean value and standard deviation of collected data were analyzed by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Results showed that the item "I ask the teacher about my child's weaknesses" is ranked first with a mean score of 3.73, which inclined towards "Agree" category. The statement, "I observe that homework assignments are checked carefully," received the highest ranking, with a mean score of 3.68, indicating a general agreement among parents. This suggests a relatively good level of parental involvement in identifying areas where their children may need improvement. Curriculum involvement shows the parents’ involvement is limited in curriculum designing.

Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Strategies in Balochistan Focusing on Water Scarcity Agricultural Fragility and Extreme Heat

Sarfraz Ahmed, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Usman Tobawal, Dr. Muhammad Makki Kakar — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This review assesses Balochistan's vulnerability to climate change, focusing on challenges such as extreme heat, water scarcity, and agricultural fragility. It emphasizes the need for targeted climate adaptation strategies tailored to local conditions. Balochistan, located in southwestern Pakistan, is highly vulnerable to climate change, experiencing extreme heatwaves, erratic rainfall, and severe water scarcity. The province's challenges are compounded by its geographical isolation, underdeveloped infrastructure, and minimal government presence. The review examines current adaptation strategies, including water management, agricultural resilience, disaster preparedness, and ecosystem-based adaptation. It integrates traditional practices and modern solutions, like rainwater harvesting, drought-resistant crops, and early warning systems, to address climate vulnerabilities. Balochistan’s challenges, including groundwater depletion, agricultural fragility, and coastal vulnerabilities, require urgent adaptation. The review highlights the importance of local knowledge, national policies, and international support to enhance resilience. Recommendations include strengthening community-led initiatives and fostering collaboration between local, national, and international stakeholders to ensure strategies.

Restoring Norms in Prolonged Conflicts: The Erosion of International Humanitarian Law in Syria

Sharjeel Hashmi, Muhammad Shoaib Jamil — Mon, 20 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This paper examines the issues of International Humanitarian Law (IHL) presented by the Syrian Civil War particularly its inability to safeguard civilians and maintain order in a protracted and complex war. Syrian war has been associated with numerous IHL breaches, including civilian building attacks, chemical weaponry, and aid blocking. These crimes have remained unpunished by political deadlocks particularly in the UN Security Council. This qualitative study is based on the use of a case study. The findings reveal that IHL becomes powerless when humanitarian regulations are given way to the politics of interests. A gradual response by the government, to normalize the violations and lessen the responsibility of the IHL, making it less efficient in deterring. Reforms are needed to restore IHL to its effectiveness, which should include depoliticized enforcement, greater responsibility on all parties, and improved legal provisions of involvement of non-state actors in protracted and asymmetric wars.

Pakistan’s Strategic Resurgence: A Neoclassical Realist Analysis of the Saudi–Pakistan Defence Pact in a Changing Middle East

Atta ur Rehman Khilji, Aubaid ur Rehman Khilji — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

The purpose of the research is to examine the factors that resulted in the strategic resurgence of Pakistan in the context of broader security dynamics of Middle East. As a result of this deal, Pakistan has gained diplomatic visibility and strengthened its ties with Palestine symbolically. This study utilizes a Neoclassical Realist framework to demonstrate that systemic pressures and domestic factors shape the resurgence of Pakistan. The study utilizes qualitative methods to analyse policy papers, think-tank reports, and media reports through content analysis. The findings reveal that the Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact has increased Pakistan’s regional visibility and strategic significance. It has resulted in new security partnerships and support for the Palestinian cause. The pragmatic approach of Pakistan has been limited due to the power imbalance in the Israel-Palestine conflict and constraints within domestic factors, i.e. economy and governance. Pakistan must construct a foreign policy that bridges ideological premises with a practical engagement with Muslim states for strategic resurgence with a view to restoring lost economic, political and cultural prestige.

Gender Diversity and Firm Performance: Evidence from Pakistan’s Industrial and Services Sectors

Maira Kiani, Dr. Nuzhat Falki, Dr. Saira Habib — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This study examines the impact of gender diversity on organizational performance across the industrial and services sectors in Pakistan. Utilizing the Resource-Based View, Agency Theory, and Institutional Theory, it examines the impact of female involvement in ownership, management, and workforce positions on organizational results, specifically firm sales. This research seeks to empirically assess if and how gender-inclusive enterprises in Pakistan, characterized by female labor force participation and sector-specific gender inequities, outperform their counterparts. The study utilized Propensity Score Matching (PSM) with firm-level data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey (2022) to mitigate selection bias and discern causal effects. Three treatment dimensions were examined: female ownership, female executive leadership, and female worker representation. Each treated firm was paired with observationally comparable non-treated enterprises through the nearest-neighbor matching. The dependent variable was company performance, represented by the logarithm of sales. The results demonstrate that companies with female managers, and female workers achieved superior performance. Female ownership was not strongly correlated with statistically significant increases in the logarithm of sales, even after matching. These findings emphasize that gender-diverse companies are both socially progressive and commercially beneficial.

Reshaping of Pakistan's Demographic Landscape by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor: A Comprehensive Review of Migration, Labor and Settlement Shifts

Najaf Ali, Takaaki Nihei, Zaheer Ahmed — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This study explores the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has transformed Pakistan’s demographic landscape, focusing on migration trends, labor mobility, and settlement realignments between 2015 and 2024. As a central project of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, CPEC has stimulated infrastructure growth, industrialization, and regional connectivity, resulting in significant population shifts and employment transitions. Using a qualitative approach, the study draws on policy documents, demographic data, and interviews with community members, officials, and labor representatives from key CPEC regions. The findings reveal large-scale internal migration toward industrial hubs, rapid expansion of semi-urban settlements, and rural depopulation. These changes have diversified labor markets while also creating socio-economic disparities and cultural integration challenges. The study recommends inclusive urban planning, community-based employment initiatives, and equitable policy interventions to manage demographic transformations effectively and ensure that CPEC-driven development contributes to balanced and sustainable growth across Pakistan.

Democratic Consolidation and Party Politics in Pakistan: The Role of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), 2008–2013

Javed Iqbal, Dr. Sajida Begum — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0500

This paper examines the Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) role in Pakistan’s democratic consolidation during its 2008–2013 tenure, focusing on constitutional, parliamentary, and civil-military reforms. Following the 2008 elections that ended military rule, the PPP faced weak democratic institutions and governance challenges. Using a qualitative, descriptive-analytical approach, data were drawn from party manifestos, parliamentary debates, constitutional amendments, and official documents, supplemented by scholarly and policy sources. The 18th Amendment, which devolved powers and restored parliamentary supremacy, marked a major democratic milestone. The PPP also completed the first full civilian term, enabling peaceful power transfer. However, governance crises, corruption allegations, energy shortages, and limited economic reform undermined institutional consolidation. While the party ensured democratic continuity, weak accountability and transparency restricted substantive progress. Future consolidation requires linking constitutional reforms with effective governance, public accountability, and improved service delivery to strengthen democratic legitimacy beyond procedural success.