Journal of Development and Social Sciences

Workplace Stress and Coping Strategies: Exploring Lived Experiences of Emotional Expression and Work-Family Conflict among Sanitary Workers of Sargodha

Mahnaz Kausar, Zahid Ali Naqi, Zahra Zulfiqar — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This qualitative research investigates the stress in the workplace, emotional expression, and work-family conflict among sanitary workers in terms of a gendered and structural context. The study is based on the Stress Process Model, Gender Role Theory, and Work-Family Conflict Theory and focuses on the overlap of occupational demands and family-related demands and coping strategies. The data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with 9 sanitary workers who were working in the urban municipal area of Sargodha. Thematic analysis showed that physically demanding work, job insecurity, low pay, and social stigma are factors that contribute to stress. The Gender norms had a great impact on emotional expression, where men were likely to conceal distress and women to express more emotional and domestic pressures. The tension between work and family increased the psychological pressure, especially to women. In spite of these difficulties, resilience was displayed by participants through peer support, religious faith, and adaptive coping. The paper indicates that gender-sensitive policy and structural reforms are needed to solve occupational health disparities.

Jihad: Classical Islamic Understanding versus Contemporary Political Misuse: A Textual and Contextual Analysis of Qur’anic and Hadith Sources

Dr. Jawed Ahmed, Naseeruddin Mahar — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The name Jihad holds the key and mistaken place in the Islamic traditions of thought and practice. Traditionally, Jihad represented a wide range of moral, spiritual, intellectual, and defensive, when it was first formed based on the Arabic word jahada (to strive or to put effort). However, the term, in modern politics, has been narrowed down to a militarized and narrow concept of it, particularly by fringe elements and by certain versions of geopolitics. The presented research paper is one that inserts a comprehensive textual and contextual analysis of the verses of the Quran and traditions of the prophet (Hadith) with a view to distinguishing the traditional Islamic understanding of Jihad and its political misinterpretation in the contemporary context. According to the primary sources such as the Quran, published collections of Hadith such as Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim, this research paper examines the semantic, juristic and historical context of Jihad.

The Role of Workforce Engagement in Driving Marketing Effectiveness and Financial Growth

Ayaz Ali Jiskani, Ali Akbar Wassan, Shakeel Ahmed Junejo — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Workforce engagement has emerged as a critical determinant of organizational performance in an increasingly competitive and customer-centric business environment. Although the standard marketing approaches focus on the customer segmentation, branding, and the effectiveness of the promotion, the modern studies underline the influential role of employees in the customer experience formation and the financial performance. This paper examines how workforce engagement can be used to promote marketing performance and financial success. The study is based on organizational behavior, internal marketing, service-profit chain, and human capital management theories to establish the direct and indirect relations between employee engagement, marketing performance indicators, and financial results. The quantitative research design was employed based on a survey that occurred with 250 employees and 60 managerial respondents in various industries. Statistic data were used such as correlation analysis, multiple regression, and structural equation modeling to evaluate the relationships between the engagement variables, marketing effectiveness measures, and financial performance measures.

The Impact of Human Capital Management on Firm Financial Performance and Market Competitiveness

Dr. Fiaz Ahmed Bhutto, Dr. Jai Kishan, Muzamil Saeed — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The Human Capital Management (HCM) has become a key factor of firm-level financial turnover and the sustained market competitiveness in an ever-growing knowledge-based global economy. With the shift of organizations in knowledge-intensive production processes, recruitment, training, performance evaluation, compensation processes, involvement of employees, and development of leadership is the key element of sustainable competitive advantage. This paper focuses on how HCM practices have affected financial performance indicators of return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), profit margins and growth in revenues and non-financial indicators of the organization of innovativeness capacity, productivity and market positioning. On Resource-Based Theory (RBT), the Human Capital Theory, and the Dynamic Capabilities Theory, the study examines the connection between formal HCM systems and firm competitiveness. The survey data that was gathered involving 120 manufacturing and service firms were used as the quantitative research design. The key HCM variables on financial and competitive performance are used.

Exploration of Collective Identity and Visual Cues in Place Attachment among Native Young Adults Living in Karachi

Dr. Kiran Bashir Ahmad — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This study explores emerging trends in the development of collective identity using the selection of visual cues among young adults native to the city of Karachi.; bringing the cityscape in context with the development of their sense of self and the narrative of connectedness related to the place attachment construct. The sample of 40 native young adults was purposively selected on the basis of their being born and brought up in Karachi. A mixed method approach with thematic analysis has been utilized to assess the elements of collective identity and it's components through the lens of visual cues while attempting to clear the way forward for understanding Place Attachment. The results indicate that the challenge faced by today’s youth in balancing personal, relational and collective constructs of identity shows a stronger tilt towards the collective identity domain. The components of social embeddedness, desire for behavioural involvement and self attributed characteristics show below average, very low and above average levels respectively. The research carries implications for psychologists, social analysts and academicians along with government agencies in building the sense of identity of the youth and in developing stronger visual cues within the urban infrastructure for improving their integration within the national construct to create a sense of belongingness.

Historical and Social Factors of Women’s Political Representation in Western and Eastern Europe in the Post-Cold War Era

Shumaila Saeed, Dr. Bilal Bin Liaqat, Dr. Ghulam Mustafa — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This article explores how historical and social dynamics have contributed to different women’s political representation in Eastern and Western Europe in the post-Cold War era. The political representation of women remains an essential component of democracy in modern societies. The political environment for women's political representation changed drastically with the end of the Cold War and subsequent shifts in Europe. Despite successful efforts, women are still underrepresented in Eastern and Western Europe in politics, such as institutions, and the decision-making process due to persistent cultural, social, and institutional barriers. These factors include male-dominated party structure, gender roles, limited access to education and economic means, and prevalence of harassment and violence in the political arena. That time span can be seen as a "restart" period in which Western Europe went through an era of stabilization and institutionalized gender equality norms, while Eastern Europe saw the disintegration of previous political structures.

Literacy and Numeracy Skills among Students at Primary School Level: A Qualitative Study

Dr. Tanveer Iqbal, Dr. Tabassum Khalid, Dr. Mehwish Jabeen Ashfaq — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Present study aimed to investigate literacy and numeracy skills among students at primary school level. A phenomenological research design was more suitable for the present study to gain structure experiences of the primary school teachers. Sample of present study was comprised of 10 primary school male and female teachers of Lahore city purposively. An interview protocol was developed to conduct the interviews. Validity of the instrument was ensured by three experts in the relevant field. Responses regarding primary school students’ literacy and numeracy skills were taken by primary school teachers. Data were analysed by emerging the themes from the responses. Findings of the study revealed that fun and interactive lessons, such as games, group work, and use of technology, often increase students' enthusiasm and enjoyment in learning literacy and numeracy skills. Moreover, literacy and numeracy skills varies from student to student some students actively take part in this practice they are keen to solve the questions and problems assign to them and happily solve the questions. Findings further concluded that the LND program emphasizes the development of fundamental literacy skills, such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, phonics, and writing. Study findings concluded that level of primary school students’ literacy and numeracy skills varied. Many students show a high level of understanding when the activities are interactive and engaging. Fun and interactive lessons, such as games, group work, and use of technology, often increase students' enthusiasm and enjoyment in learning literacy and numeracy skills. As students experience success in literacy and numeracy, their confidence grows. Study recommends to develop literacy and numeracy skills among primary school students that may increase confidence which lead them towards higher motivation and a more positive attitude towards learning.

Impact of Digital Technology on the Academic Writing Skills of Undergraduate ESL Learners in a Pakistani University Context

Saqif Rafique Ansari, Saira Niaz — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This study aims at investigating the impact of digital technology on the Academic Writing of undergraduate English as a Second Language (ESL) learners at Sukkur IBA University, Pakistan. It employs Van Dijk, 2005’s Resources and Appropriation Theory (RAT) that investigates access to digital tools, their appropriation (integration and use) during the writing process and the resulting outcomes on Academic Writing of undergraduate ESL learners in Sukkur IBA University. This study was conducted through a quantitative approach. The data was collected through a survey from 109 undergraduate ESL learners through a convenient sampling. The findings of the study reveal that ESL learners had appropriate access to digital tools and they used and integrated them on regular basis for planning, drafting, revising and improving their writing. It indicates that digital tools assisted them in improving and enhancing their accuracy, coherence, vocabulary, motivation and confidence during the Academic writing. The findings also indicate that the access to digital tools is important, but the effective appropriation and strategic usage are the primary components of improved writing outcomes. On the whole, this study suggests that proper digital literacy training and well-organized teaching strategies are vital for the appropriate use of digital tools in ESL classrooms in general and Sukkur IBA University, Pakistan in particular.

Administrative and Pedagogical Challenges in Using Aaghi LMS: Perspectives of M. Phil and Ph. D Students at Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, Pakistan

Dr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Tanveer Ahmed — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Current study explored the administrative and pedagogical challenges faced by M.Phil and PhD students while using the LMS. Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) is considered as a top ranked distance learning university of Pakistan. After COVID-19 AIOU shifted many educational programs on online learning management information system known as “Aaghi Portal”. Five validated interview questions was conducted from 27 M.Phil and PhD students from session 2025. From deductive thematic analysis the qualitative data were analyzed. The results obtained from the study indicated that most of the students had faced different managerial and pedagogical issues while using Aaghi LMS i.e. connecting issues with the system, unable to handle the system related problems, serious pedagogical and learning challenges due to lecture delivery, outdated course contents and lack of engagement . They demanded technical support, empathy, better communiation mechanism and curriculum updates. Departments of ICT and student advisory may play their role in minimizing students’ challenges.

Hermeneutics and Constraint in Law: Reassessing the Interpretative Limits in Dennis Patterson’s Jurisprudential Framework

Dr. Syed Muhammad Farrukh Bukhari, Dr. Syed Murad Ali Shah, Amara Syed — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The aim of this study is to explore Dennis Patterson's understanding about Interpretation in Law and assess whether interpretation is inherently fundamental to legal practice, or merely a method employed in a situation in which there is a lack of clarity. Differently, he treats interpretation as a secondary technique and supports his view through examples of important cases such as Riggs v. Palmer and C & J Fertilizer v. Allied Mutual Insurance Co., while discussing textual, doctrinal, historical, and structural arguments. The research in hands aims to provide a qualitative and analytical study of Patterson's jurisprudence, including a comparative analysis of important interpretive principles. The study shows that, although, Patterson recognizes the importance of interpretation in understanding the meaning of a text, yet he does not see it as fundamental. Resultantly, Patterson's framework is consistent with traditional interpretive principles, therefore, his framework can only be incorporated with them and not others.

Between Schools, Between Worlds: Educational Equity and Wellbeing among Highly Mobile Students

Muhammad Abdullah Farooq Javed, Muhammad Faheem Asher, Asim Mahmood — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This paper discusses the impacts of frequent school movement on the academic trajectory and socio-emotional wellness of highly mobile students in a multi-branch school system in Pakistan. Academic disruption and social dislocation are generally linked with student mobility. Nevertheless, there is little literature that looks at situations where institutional structures seek to alleviate such impacts, especially in the Global South. This study utilized qualitative multiple case study design. The observations and school records were triangulated with data, and the data were analyzed thematically. The results have shown that standardized curriculum and centralized assessments and record transfer systems are great aids to academic continuity. Nonetheless, students still have early socio-emotional problems that can be anxiety and inability to establish peer relationships. Key mediating variables included resilience, peer support and teacher facilitation. Academic alignment should be accompanied by increased organized systems of socio-emotional support in schools to augment the students’ well-being.

The Intersection of Trauma and Resilience: Exploring Neurobiological Pathways and Coping Mechanisms in Modern Mental Health Interventions

Hifza Qayyum, Amna Khan, Sadiya Asim — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The objective of the present study was to investigate the association between trauma severity, resilience, coping strategies and psychological distress (referred to as the research model) arguing that resilience works as a mediator, in a neuro-biologically informed framework The study attempts to understand the prevalence of “trauma and post traumatic stress disorder” among the students studying in Jammu University. Today, how neurobiological and psychosocial mechanisms interact to affect mental health is examined in modern research. A quantitative, cross sectional study involving 300 trauma exposed adults assessed trauma, resilience, coping, distress and cortisol. Performed descriptive statistics, regression, and moderation analyses. The study found a positive correlation between trauma severity and distress (r = 0.65) as well as a negative correlation between resilience and distress (r = -0.65). Resilience affected the relationship between trauma and distress, accounting for 72% of the variance in distress. The mental health interventions should focus on resilience in order to reduce distress.

Between Sanctions and Strategy: The Evolution of China-Iran Relations in a Shifting Global Order

Muhammad Afzal, Dr. Imran Wakil — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This qualitative study focuses that how China and Iran have developed their relations under the US-led sanctions imposed on Iran and how they evolved their relations in a shifting global order. Entering the 21st century, a new relation emerged between Beijing and Tehran, and has developed into a multi-layered and highly complex relationship of a strategic partnership. The motives behind these mutual interests; the presence of common geopolitical objectives, cooperative economic requirements, and shared opposition to Western dominance are also discussed in this study. China's foreign policy has always been characterized by a strong emphasis on neutrality and non-intervention; however, her relationship with Iran shows a carefully measured degree of support to an economically sanctioned country, recognizing the geopolitical significance of Iran as a Middle Eastern country. The multidimensional China-Iran partnership has been strengthening since 2000 and particularly after the US sanctions against Iran deepened, alongside the US Shift to Asia. Currently, economically and diplomatically isolated Iran has found in China an important source of support. Also, an important source of support for China is Iran, who highly values an economically developing country with the energy supply, the expansion of the Belt and Road Initiative, and the support for a multi-polar world. In addition to all of this, China has an increasing desire for strategic diversification in the Middle East and in this case is also providing a good opportunity to her. It is recommended that if China wants to make BRI a safe and successful route in the Middle East, and get benefit from the cheap Irani petroleum products, it is necessary for her to keep continue her support in every field even in the presence of US-led Western sanctions. It is also recommended for Iran to respect China’s balancing strategy towards all the Gulf states.

A Study of the Problems of Federalism in Pakistan (1947-1971)

Fayyaz Ahmad Hussain, Dr. Abdul Basit Khan, Shamila — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Various scholars agree that the structuring of a federal form of government requires that the powers granted to the local units must not be trivial but substantial. Moreover, a federal constitution embodying federal principles alone would not be enough to satisfy different groups in a plural society but the principle of federal constitutionalism must be observed which involves the respect of the spirit of the constitution by those who operate different state organs. In the early phase of the constitutional and political history of Pakistan, the working relationship between the federal government and various provincial governments had not remained ideal whereas the constitutional settlement of various federal problems like the nature of legislature, distribution of powers, proportion of representation for units along with mode and shape of the electoral system were among some of the key issues faced by the decision makers in the country which ultimately led to the enforcement of One-Unit Scheme inherently manifesting a highly centralized form of government. Accordingly, this study reviews the constitutional and political problems faced by the ruling elite in Pakistan in terms of establishing a genuine federal form of government after 1947 until 1971. While analyzing various constitutional proposals and instruments applied in Pakistan, it finds that Pakistan never enjoyed a true federal setup during the period under analysis hence the country could not inculcate and enjoy the much-desired political stability.

Corporate Social Responsibility Disclosure and Greenwashing in Pakistani SMEs: Evidence from Managers’ Perspectives

Rabia Zubair, Muhammad Ghulam Shabeer, Farhat Rasul — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This study aims to examine managers’ perceptions of CSR disclosures and greenwashing, specifically within SMEs in Pakistan. The research focus is on their practical challenges and limitations. CSR remains an emerging concept in Pakistani SMEs because awareness is limited and misconceptions persist. Although regulatory frameworks exist, weak enforcement and institutional gaps reduce their effectiveness. This study has used a qualitative approach; data were collected through video- and audio-recorded interviews with SME managers selected via snowball sampling. The study focuses on SMEs across Pakistan as the target population. Data were transcribed and analysed using ATLAS. ti 22, applying thematic analysis, coding, and word frequency techniques to identify patterns and insights. The findings indicate low awareness of CSR and widespread misunderstanding of disclosure practices. Weak regulatory enforcement, corruption, lack of expertise, and limited organisational support further hinder CSR adoption. The study recommends strengthening policy enforcement, improving CSR awareness, and building internal expertise to enhance responsible practices among SMEs.

The Role of United Nations in Promoting Peace & Security in the Middle East: A Case of Syria

Ayesha, Dr. Zahid Yaseen — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The ongoing war in Syria has posed a major challenges of the peace and security mandate of the United Nations. Since 2011, the conflict has involved state and non-state actors, regional and world powers and the massive humanitarian disasters as well as it has questioned the capability of international institutions in the context of managing complex crises. This study critically reviews the role of the United Nations in the Syrian conflict with the reference to the diplomatic, humanitarian and accountability efforts. This study rests on a qualitative approach of the case study analysis of UN-led processes, such as the Geneva peace process, cross-border humanitarian operations, and mechanisms of legal accountability, such as the Commission of Inquiry and International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM). Such interventions are evaluated in the paper in comparison with barriers of geopolitical transgression, including paralysis of the Security Council, vetoes, functional constraints, and regional power politics. The results indicate that despite contributions in humanitarian aid and norm-setting, the UN has been limited by structural weakness and political divisions, offering insights for scholars and policymakers.

Bull as Motif in Contemporary Pakistani Art: A Comprehensive Analysis

Aneeka Saeed Zia, Dr. Sadia Arshad — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The objective of this research is to analyze the evolution of Bull imagery in contemporary Pakistani art over time and to understand the impact of this evolution on the overall aesthetic and thematic direction of Pakistani art. Pakistani art has rich visual vocabulary.These visual elements need to be discussed thoroughly.Unfortunately the books available on Pakistani art in our society there is less debate and lack of documentation of such faunal forms including the motif of Bull. Most of the literature available on contemporary Pakistani Art focuses more on artists’ bibliography, technique and the painting style adopted by them. This research follows American Psychological Association (APA) style 6th edition and primarily employs a qualitative research approach, supplemented by a smaller quantitative component.The study will focus on an in-depth analysis of the artworks depicting Bull motif with a proposed examination. Artworks included in this research shows the aesthatic and conceptual approach of Pakistani artists regarding the imagery of Bull.These artworks also depict the social, economic and religious actualities related to the Bull motif in Pakistan.The selected artworks provide a visual documantation and heighlight the significance of Bull imagery in the history of Pakistan.

Impact of Antecedents of Intrinsic Motivation on Organizational Citizenship Behavior

Eimad Hafeez Gogia, Dr. Rauza, Dr. Aurangzeb Zulfiqar Khan — Sun, 05 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Drawing on social exchange theory, this study investigates how employees’ perceptions of developmental investment in themselves, perceived organizational support, and satisfaction with their performance appraisal affect involvement in organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). It also investigates the mediated effect of intrinsic motivation on the aforementioned relationships. The data were collected from employees in the Pakistani telecommunications sector using a time-lagged field survey. Demographic and intrinsic motivation data were collected during the first session, followed by a 2-week interval, and subsequently, perceptions of investment in employee development, organizational support, and satisfaction with performance appraisal. Finally, OCB data were collected after another two weeks. The measurement model analysis and path coefficients were carried out using SmartPLS to assess factor loadings, discriminant validity, and reliability. Bootstrapping was also used to estimate the path coefficients. The findings showed that all hypotheses were supported, supporting the social exchange model. The findings underscore the importance of intrinsic motivation as a mediating mechanism in enhancing OCB in response to perceptions of organizational practices.

Influencer Credibility and Follower Engagement as Predictors of Brand Advocacy in Digital Marketing

Hajra Shahzad, Fahad Anis, Sardar Ahmad Javed — Mon, 06 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

The increasing rate of social media growth has altered the digital marketing approaches, as they have transformed a social media influencer into a central point in the relationship between the brand and a consumer. This paper explores how credibility of the influencer and the extent of engagement with followers can forecast brand advocacy with respect to online advertising. The study followed a quantitative approach to study how perceived influencer trustworthiness, expertise, and attractiveness, and the degree of follower engagement, influence the willingness of consumers to promote brands. A structured questionnaire utilized to collect data among the university students 300(n) who follow the social media influencers actively. Statistical tests show that influencer credibility is a highly predictive factor of follower engagement, which contributes to brand advocacy positively. The results present the intermediating role of engagement and the strategic value of credible influencers in establishing the loyal and advocacy-based behavior of consumers.

Experiences of Professional Social Workers in Women-Centered Practice in Sargodha: A Qualitative Analysis

Shajiah Qursam, Dr. Beenish Ijaz Butt, Nimra Shafi — Thu, 09 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

Social Workers play a critical and crucial role in women-centered practice in Pakistan. Review of literature reveals that they provide long and short-term assistance to women suffering from distressed circumstances. However, several frequent obstacles prevent them from providing efficient services. This article aims to describe and explain experiences of professional Social Workers in women-centered practice through qualitative research. The social workers working in women-centered practice were the research population of the current study to meet the inclusion criteria. Seven respondents were interviewed and selected by purposive sampling until the saturation point came. The researcher has used an interview guide as a tool for data collection. Major themes derived from data analysis were the My Problems or Clients’ Problems: experiences of Professional Social Workers, Gender as Socio-cultural construct and Barrier for Social Workers, Institutional and Structural Challenges and Coping Mechanisms and Strategies. It was concluded that professional Social Workers in women-centered practice face certain challenges during their service which needs to be addressed by the government. It is recommended that efforts should be made to establish alliances with local organizations, spiritual figures, and non-governmental organizations.

Gender Differences and Psychosocial Challenges in Patient with Type II Diabetes

Zoubia Ali Baig, Dr. Shirmeen Ijaz, Saira Majid — Mon, 13 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0500

This study investigates the gender differences in psychosocial issues in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus patients. T2DM is a chronic condition that not only affect physical health but also psychosocial health that leads to gender differences in role and coping may influence psychosocial burden. The study was conducted in Lahore on a sample of 235 participants(121 males and 114 females with T2DM diagnosis by using a quantitative cross-sectional study design. The psychosocial problems were assessed using a 15-item self-report scale. Independent sample t-test was applied to detect differences in gender. Males reported lower levels (M = 35.09, SD = 9.54) compared to females (M = 40.94, SD = 8.61), t (233) = -4.93, p <.001. The results indicate that female patients have a greater psychological load than male patients. Diabetes care should incorporate psychological evaluation and gender-sensitive therapies. Longitudinal trends should be studied in future studies.