Annals of Human and Social Sciences

The Dynamics of Color: Trauma, Violence, and the Aesthetics of Suffering in Han Kang’s The White Book

Hafiz Kamran Farooqi — 2025-04-07

This paper examines trauma, violence, and the aesthetics of suffering in The White Book by Han Kang, focusing on the complexities of personal and historical trauma within South Korean culture. It explores the symbolic use of white imagery – objects and photographs – as representations of socio-political and psychological themes. Using a qualitative approach and Judith Herman’s trauma recovery framework, the study investigates the novel’s meditative and fragmented narrative, analyzing how metaphors, symbolism, and imagery articulate both individual and collective trauma. The narrator's journey reflects the transformation of trauma, revealing how trauma impacts identity and memory across generations. White serves as a powerful metaphor for both mourning and renewal, signifying loss while also suggesting healing. The paper argues that literature, particularly South Korean fiction, can facilitate trauma recovery by restoring confidence, rebuilding trust, and fostering societal reconnection. It concludes by encouraging further interdisciplinary inquiry into trauma, memory, and identity in literature, particularly within the context of Korean cultural and historical narratives.

Body Dysmorphism and Sleep Quality among PCOS Patients: Assessing the Predictive Role of Alyxthymia

Shagufta Perveen — 2025-04-11

PCOS is linked with psychosomatic issues such as apprehension, alexithymia, poor body image, and sleep problems. The current study mainly aims to examine the predictive role of alexithymia in the relationship between body dysmorphism and sleep quality and to explore the demographic differences in the study variables. The study was carried out on purposefully selected (N=300)PCOS patients from different hospitals and clinics. Along with a demographic sheet, the patients completed three instruments: the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, the Appearance Anxiety Inventory, and the Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire. Results suggested that alexithymia significantly predicted the association between quality of sleep and body dysmorphism traits and body dysmorphism is significantly positively associated with alexithymia whereas inversely associated with quality of sleep. Marital and fertility-based differences were also proved. Study results will be helpful for professionals in resolving PCOS-related psychological issues. Future research should be based on a larger sample and longitudinal study design.

The Collapse of Meaning in McCarthy’s The Road: A Post-Modern Critique

Javeria Saleem — 2025-04-12

This study analyzes Cormac McCarthy’s The Road (2022) from the Postmodernist-Marxist theoretical framework of Fredric Jameson, which he cited in his book Postmodernism, or The Cultural Logic of Late Capitalism (1991), and aims to uncover how the characters, dialogues, and incidents reflect meaninglessness, fragmentation, and superficiality. Moreover, this study critically examines how capitalism shapes the economic world and prophesizes how it could lead humans to self-destruction. The Road (2022) is a narrative about two characters, ‘the boy’ and ‘the man,’ trying to construct the meaning of their identities and surroundings while trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world. This post-modern critique traces these phenomena in the narrative through close reading and thematic analysis. The present study concludes that the erosion of meaning and identity foreshadows the disastrous effects of late capitalism and suggests that readers reflect on their cultural and environmental practices in a deeper insight and consider the hazardous effects of late capitalism.

Investigating the Role of Positive Parenting in Mitigating Adolescent Disruptive Behaviors in Religious Education

Yusrah Khan — 2025-04-15

This research aims to investigate the impact of various forms of religious education on adolescents' perceived parenting styles and disruptive behavior. A quantitative research design employing a comparative correlational approach was utilized to collect data from adolescents (N = 300) with the age range of 12-18 years. Convenient purposive sampling technique was employed to gather data from those participants who are exposed to any form of religious education, to explore their parental perceptions and behavioral tendencies. The findings of this research give light to different parenting dimensions that have an effect on the adolescent’s disruptive behavior & facilitate the field of Psychology by giving a new perspective towards religion and religious education along with their association with parenting and maladaptive behavior. Future studies can work on collecting samples from different cities and people of different backgrounds to strengthen the analysis

First World War and a Vision of Global Chaos and Decay: An Analysis of D. H. Lawrence’s Post-War Novels

Abdul Shakoor — 2025-04-18

The present research aims to explore a vision of global chaos and decay in Lawrence’s post-war novels. A careful comparison of Lawrence’s early and later novels shows that his pre-war novels reflect his zest for life and blissful blindness to bitter social realities. However, the outbreak of the Great War (1914-18) made him realize inherent death wish and suicidal instincts in European culture and this bitter realization of modern anti-life filled him with disgust for the European culture which is reflected in his post-war novels. The present research has adopted a qualitative method for the collection and analysis of the relevant data. The analysis proves that there is a marked difference between Lawrence’s pre-war and post-war novels. Later novels are full of imagery associated with decay, death, impotency and rottenness representing modern anti life. Future researchers can carry out other such research projects to explore the impact of war on various literary texts.

Microteaching in Pakistan: Exploring Challenges, Benefits and Recommendations through the Lenses of Microteaching Supervisors

Muhammad Abid Malik — 2025-04-20

The focus of this study was to explore the challenges and benefits of microteaching through the lenses of microteaching supervisors, and to give recommendations for its improvement. This qualitative study gathered data from eight microteaching supervisors at one public sector university in Pakistan using semi-structured interviews. The main issues reported by the participants were time management, improper lesson planning, and a lack of proper training and protocols for microteaching; while deepening prospective teachers’ understanding, improving their behaviors, developing specific skills, getting immediate feedback, and learning from others were its key benefits. The study recommends incorporating microteaching into teaching practice, especially during its initial stages. It also suggests moving toward more technology-infused versions such as microteaching 2.0, developing lesson plans more carefully for microteaching, and providing specific training for the supervisors so that they can utilize it more effectively to prepare prospective teachers for their professional careers.

Examining Social Media Thumbnails and Posts: A Critical Analysis of Kite String Incidents and Road Safety in Pakistan

Adnan Ali Anwar — 2025-04-25

This study explores the semiotics and discourses surrounding kite flying accidents, focusing on the impact of YouTube thumbnails and AI-generated images on perceptions of safety and cultural significance. Kite flying poses hazards, particularly from kite strings in South Asia. Visual media often sensationalize these dangers, influencing public opinion and safety narratives. The study employs social-semiotic discourse analysis to examine various images and thumbnails, identifying key themes such as social responsibility, freedom, and danger. Findings indicate that sensationalized imagery and language can distort truth, leading to misinformation. This creates tension between the enjoyment of kite flying and safety concerns, highlighting media's role in shaping societal attitudes and regulatory demands. The study advocates for ethical media consumption that balances cultural heritage with safety, emphasizing the need for critical engagement with visual narratives to foster informed discussions and appropriate safety measures.

Relationship of Big Five Personality Traits in Self-Compassion among Young Adults

Syeda Fatima Sohail — 2025-04-27

The aim of the current study was to explore the role of big five personality traits (openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, and neuroticism) with self-compassion among young adults. Individuals need to identify their personality traits to find their purpose in life. It is well known that personality traits predict consequential outcomes. The cross-sectional research design was used in the current study. A proposed sample of 387 (both male and female) of age 18 to 25 belonging to general population of Islamabad and Rawalpindi was selected through purposive sampling. Big five personality (OCEAN) was used to measure the personality traits. Self-compassion scale will be used to measure the self-compassion. The interpretation of the current study findings was done through SPSS utilizing descriptive analysis and correlational analysis. Findings of the current study indicated that people who have positive personality traits like openness to experience, conscientiousness, extraversion and agreeableness is significantly positively correlated (p** < .01) with self-compassion and neuroticism is significantly negatively correlated (p** < .01) with self-compassion among young adults. The sample of the study is limited to only twin cities of Pakistan. So future researchers can replicate this study with a more diverse sample from different cities in Pakistan to obtain more generalizable results.

Learning to Break the Law: A Criminological Study of Parental Traffic Violations and its Influence on Children’s Behavior in Pakistan

Nisar Ahmed Lund Baloch — 2025-04-27

This study examines how parental traffic violations in school zones influence children’s future attitudes toward breaking traffic laws. Traffic violations near schools create physical risks for students and normalize illegal behavior. Theoretical frameworks used include Social Bond Theory, Social Learning Theory, and Rational Choice Theory. A mixed-method approach combined direct observations of school zone traffic behavior with structured surveys conducted across schools in Sindh Pakistan. Findings revealed widespread traffic violations by parents, particularly male drivers, including unlawful parking and speeding. Around 78% of surveyed students witnessed their parents violating traffic laws, which strongly correlated with children’s acceptance and imitation of such behavior. Weak police enforcement and peer influence were identified as major contributing factors. Stronger traffic law enforcement around schools, safety education programs for parents and students, and public awareness campaigns are crucial to breaking the cycle of learned illegal behavior and ensuring safer school environments.

Navigating Maritime Security In Indian Ocean: A Case Study Of Pakistan

Anoosh Shabbir — 2025-04-27

The smuggling, illegal fishing, and geopolitical tensions with their regional and extra regional powers. This study argues that Pakistan's maritime strategy, naval modernization, and cooperation with other international actors-from IORA to CMF-can help foster stability in considerations of maritime security. Also in consideration are discussions on the implications of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the development of Gwadar port for the regional maritime security paradigm. The qualitative methodology largely examines the effects that might be exerted on Pakistan's maritime security policy, strategic partnerships with others, and the considerations of balancing the national interests of Pakistan against the wider regional security concerns. Consequently, these findings enhance an understanding of patterns of governance in relation to Indian Ocean maritime security and offer policy recommendations for greater regional cooperation.

Historical and Diplomatic Relations of India with Saudia Arabia and Iran

Eman Youns — 2025-04-30

Abstract The aim of this study is to explore the historical and diplomatic relations of India with Saudi Arabia and Iran. Using a qualitative research approach, the study examines key periods of engagement, cultural exchanges, economic partnerships, and political collaborations between India and these two significant Middle Eastern nations. The findings reveal that India’s relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran have been shaped by a combination of historical ties, shared economic interests, religious connections, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of how past interactions continue to influence contemporary diplomacy and foreign policy strategies. It is recommended to restore and reinforce attaches with Saudi Arabia, Pakistan should put a serious need on fundamental obligation and can be achieved with the help of basic level visits, social trades, and joint drives that feature shared interests, especially in regions like counter-mental battling, exchange, and hypothesis.

The Phenomenon of Shift in Translation: A Corpus Based Descriptive Study of Spatial Deixis in Punjab Laws

Rabia Munir — 2025-04-30

This article aims to explore the Phenomenon of Translation Shift of Spatial Deictic Forms (S.D.F) in the Urdu translation of the Punjab Laws. For this purpose, J.C Ian Catford’s model of Translation Shift is used as a theoretical framework to analyze the shifts carried on by the translator in order to maintain the equivalence in between English and Urdu Punjab Laws. The entire Phenomenon of Shift in the translation is explored through the use of a Corpus-Based Descriptive approach. The impact of the approach to Translation Shift is observed in two-folds. On the first part, it is used to explore the Category, Unit and Intra System Shift in the Urdu Translation of Punjab Laws and on the other part; it replaced the positions of the (S.D.F). In its whole this impact of the change of positions is elaborated by means of the implication of the strategies of Addition and Modulation as being followed by the translator, while translating the (ST) deictic items into the (TT).

A Correlation between Teachers’ Attitude and Speaking Skills of the ESL Learners: A Study Conducted at BS Level in Rahim Yar Khan

Muhammad Muhsin Hameed — 2025-04-30

Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) presents significant challenges in Pakistan, particularly at the university level. ESL learners often struggle with speaking skills due to limited vocabulary, anxiety, fear of making mistakes, and inadequate teacher motivation. The attitudes of ESL teachers play a crucial role in shaping students' learning experiences and their ability to communicate effectively in English. This study aims to explore the correlation between teachers’ attitudes and the speaking proficiency of ESL learners at the BS level in Rahim Yar Khan. A quantitative correlational research design was employed, involving 250–300 BS-level ESL learners selected through random sampling. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire based on a 5-point Likert scale and a speaking proficiency test assessing grammar, pronunciation, fluency, and vocabulary. Statistical analysis, including Pearson correlation, was conducted using SPSS software to determine the relationship between teacher attitudes and student speaking abilities. A significant correlation between teacher attitudes and students' speaking proficiency. Supportive and encouraging teacher behaviors positively influenced students’ confidence and fluency, whereas negative attitudes hindered language acquisition. The study concludes that fostering a positive and engaging classroom environment can enhance ESL learners' speaking skills. Recommendations include teacher training programs emphasizing motivational strategies and communicative teaching methods to improve language proficiency outcomes.

Global Importance Of China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): An Analysisa

Muhammad Rehan Akram — 2025-05-05

The purpose of this article is to analyze the global importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) in terms of its economic, strategic, and geopolitical impactst . CPEC, a flagship project under China’s Belt and Road Initiative, connects western China to Pakistan’s Gwadar Port, offering a strategic alternative to the Malacca Strait and reinforcing China's global trade and energy security. The research is qualitative, relying on content analysis of secondary data, including academic publications, policy reports, and case studies. CPEC enhances Pakistan’s infrastructure, energy capacity, and regional connectivity while strengthening China’s access to international markets. It also reshapes regional geopolitics, drawing responses from global actors such as India and the United States. However, it faces environmental, security, and diplomatic challenges. To mitigate these issues, CPEC must adopt green development models, strengthen regional diplomacy, and enhance internal security cooperation for successful implementation.

An Iconic and Actantial Analysis of James Joyce's Araby through Greimas' Actantial and Semiotic Model

Ayaz Muhammad Shah — 2025-05-09

The objective of this study is to examine the applicability of Algirdas Julien Greimas’s actantial model by identifying and analysing the actants within the narrative structure of James Joyce’s Araby. The actantial model, developed by Greimas, abstracts and simplifies the complex structure of a narrative text into six core functions or actants: subject, object, sender, receiver, helper, and opponent. These actants represent functional roles rather than specific characters, offering a theoretical framework for narrative analysis. Employing a structured inquiry alongside both quantitative and qualitative methods, this research identifies and interprets the actants and their respective functions within the story. The study finds that Greimas’s model can be effectively applied to Araby, and potentially to various forms or even sections of narrative texts. This approach may be further developed through comparative studies and interdisciplinary applications to enrich actantial analysis across diverse narrative forms.

The Fall of PPP Governments in the 1990s: Political Rivalries and Corruption Allegations

Mahmood Ali — 2025-05-10

The PPP experienced multiple premature government terminates during the 1990s because political battles escalated with constant corruption accusations. This research investigates the essential political aspects together with institutional structures and governance components which caused the PPP governments to fall in 1990 and 1996. The research relies on qualitative methodology to study the political struggles and institutional observations as well as corruption cases through the examination of historical documentation and parliamentary proceedings and court decisions and media reports. The research demonstrates how corruption scandals significantly damaged PPP government credibility yet such allegations served multiple political groups such as opposition forces along with military suits and judicial bodies who used them to weaken democratic institutions. Executive-legislative tension alongside presidential discretionary powers created political instability in Pakistan’s system of governance according to the study. This research brings essential understanding about Pakistani democratic consolidation challenges while proposing institutional reforms which aim to enhance governance and accountability together with political stability.

Implications of Pervez Musharraf’s Decentralization of Power Agenda to Transform Bureaucratic System of Pakistan

Syed Aqeel Abbas Shah — 2025-05-11

focusing on how it affected the country's bureaucratic and administrative structures. The main charge is that Musharraf's decentralization initiatives were intended to strengthen governance and redress imbalances between the civilian and military sectors. The research method includes a qualitative research design, which mainly relies on secondary sources with a range of government and academic sources, and entails a detailed examination of legislative amendments, policy changes, and their practical implications. The National Reconstruction Bureau (NRB) and the Provincial Finance Commission (PFC) were two important reforms that attempted to transfer authority and funds from the federal to local governments, nevertheless, bureaucracy and political parties posed strong obstacle to the execution, which reduce the efficacy of these changes. However, low resources, poor administration, and pervasive corruption also hampered its efficacy. The paper demonstrates how that decentralization transformed government while confronting institutional and resource restrictions. It recommends better institutions, political consensus, and long-term finance for efficient local governance.

Impact of Self-esteem on Smartphone Dependency among Young Adults: Mediated by Nomophobia

Zoonish Aziz — 2025-05-13

The current research explored the effect of self-esteem on smartphone addiction in young adults, with nomophobia tested as a mediator. A total of 300 university students took part in the research using standardized tests: the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, the Nomophobia Questionnaire, and the Smartphone Addiction Scale. Correlational and regression analyses identified a significant negative correlation between self-esteem and smartphone addiction. Mediation analysis also revealed that nomophobia partly mediated this association, indicating that lower self-esteem individuals tend to have higher levels of nomophobia, which further lead to higher levels of smartphone dependence. The results emphasize the need to tackle both self-view and anxiety in digital environments while promoting health technologies. It is advised that targeted interventions focusing on boosting self-esteem and alleviating nomophobia be integrated into digital literacy and mental health initiatives for young adults. Such programs can equip individuals with healthier coping strategies and foster more balanced, mindful engagement with technology.

The Impact of Watching Mukbang on Developing Risk of Eating Disorder Symptoms in Young Adults

Vardah Ahmed — 2025-05-15

The aim of the current research was to explore the relationship between watching Mukbang and developing the risk of eating disorder symptoms, and how personality traits play a moderating role in young adults The possible consequences of vicarious eating on dietary behavior and the role of personality factors between the variables have not been explored, which is why the current study focused on analyzing these relationships. A quantitative correlational survey was conducted on 101 participants aged 18 to 40. The scales used were the Mukbang Addiction Scale, Eating Attitude Test , and Big Five Personality Inventory. Results indicated a positive correlation between watching Mukbang and eating disorder symptoms; however, personality traits did not play a moderating role. This study helps clinical psychologists conceptualize cases and plan treatment with a new perspective. In future, sample from multiple cities of Paksitan could be inculcate to increase the generalizability of the result.

Evolving Expressions: Modernization of Tribal Wall Paintings in West Bengal and its Adjoining States

Arup Majumder — 2025-05-16

This study explores how tribal wall painting traditions are changing in West Bengal and nearby states, focusing on modernisation's effect on these art forms. The captivating area of West Bengal in India is home to forty tribal groups. Their native art shows a deep history, rich culture, and great creativity. They decorate their house walls to celebrate various festivals and events. Using ethnographic techniques, this research examines how global connections, new materials and technologies have an impact on the methods, subjects, and cultural significance of tribal wall art. The research uncovered a move away from old-school methods and themes toward up-to-date styles shaped by outside influences. To preserve tribal wall art, it's essential to grasp the cultural importance and background of the artwork, encourage local artists, and advocate for sustainable methods. This involves presenting art via documentation, exhibitions, and uplifting tribal communities through education and opportunities for income generation.

Loneliness in Working and Non-Working Young Adult Women

Rehana Batool Niazi — 2025-05-17

This study compares loneliness levels between employed and non-employed young adult women in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, Pakistan. Employment is believed to play a protective role against loneliness by offering social interaction, identity, and structure. This study examines whether vocational engagement reduces perceived loneliness among women. A purposive sample of 60 women aged 25–30 years (30 employed, 30 non-employed) was assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version 3). Data were analyzed using an independent samples t-test in SPSS. Findings revealed that non-employed women reported significantly higher loneliness scores than employed women, suggesting that employment contributes to emotional and social well-being. To reduce loneliness among non-working women, it is recommended to implement community-based programs, support groups, and skill-building workshops that foster social engagement and self-worth. Policymakers and mental health professionals should promote inclusive initiatives that enhance psychological well-being through structured roles and social support systems.

Stylistic Analysis of Margaret Atwood’s The Handmaid’s Tale and Bina Shah’s Before She Sleeps: A Comparative Study of Feminist Dystopian Fiction

Amna Ashraf — 2025-05-20

Feminist Dystopian Fiction has assumed great significance in recent years. In this context, this study probes the impact of culture(s) and linguistic choices in the creation of dystopian narratives written by women. The research explores how the portrayal of feminist issues by contemporary female writers, Margaret Atwood, in The Handmaid’s Tale (1985), and Bina Shah, in Before She Sleeps (2018), is influenced by the cultural settings and stylistic choices. For this purpose, data has been collected through purposeful selection of important sections of text(s) from these narratives and analysed using qualitative textual analysis and Mills’ Feminist Stylistics (1995) framework. The study investigates how gender discrimination, reproductive control, loss of agency and identity are stylistically embedded in Feminist Dystopias. The study concludes that the culture(s) of both authors, namely, a white woman and a woman of color, impact their portrayal of gender discrimination, patriarchy, and loss of agency in their works. Future researchers can also integrate reader-response stylistics.

The Dynamics of Political Intolerance among Party Workers in Pakistan: An Empirical Study

Sarwat Chohadry — 2025-05-21

This study was designed to examine the dynamics of political intolerance among party workers of Pakistan, recognizing the fat that historical and cultural roots of intolerance, the role of politics and religion in its growth have powerful impact on party workers in increasing political intolerance. This study is descriptive in nature and Quantative method by approach. The target population was the male and female political workers of four major political parties; Pakistan Muslim League Nawas, Pakistan People’s Party, Pakistan Tehreke Insaf and Tehreke labaik Pakistan. Political worker from federal capital Islamabad and provincial capitals; Gilgit Baltistan, (Gilgit) Sindh ,(Karachi), Punjab (Lahore ) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Peshawar) and Balochistan (Quetta) were taken as study sample by using cochran’s bach formula for taking sufficient sample size from the population. The data was collected with a questionnaire and was analyzed by applying descriptive and inferential statistic. The result of the study showed deep rooted historical, cultural, socio- economic causes plays a vital role in political intolerance of party workers of Pakistan and analysis of the questionnaire showed high condition of political intolerance in party workers of Pakistan. This study recommends that educational and political institution as well as public departments should promoting civic education, a trend of regard, inclusivity and democracy, political leaders avoid negative narratives and develop a negotiator environment then it is possible to reduce intolerant behaviour in part workers of Pakistan to make Pakistan a politically peaceful state. It also recommended that all parties should agree on a code of conduct that is respectful and free of violence, especially on social media and the media.

The Israel-Palestine Conflict: Unpacking Ideological and Political Beliefs in Donald Trump's Recent Speech

Saima Jamshaid — 2025-05-26

This study intends to analyze the ideological and political dimensions present in the recent speech delivered by Donald Trump, the newly elected President of the United States, concerning the ongoing situation between Israel and Palestine. The basic purpose of the study is to investigate the underlying ideological and political beliefs of Trump reflected from the linguistic choices of the leader. The primary data consists of Trump's speech, retrieved from the online platform YouTube. A descriptive qualitative approach is employed to capture the ideological elements within the speech. For data analysis, the study utilizes Van Dijk’s (1980) Three-Dimensional Framework, which is particularly suited for exploring ideological representation. The findings reveal that Trump employs assertive language to project authority and influence, condemns the terrorist group Hamas, and affirms the United States' commitment to defending the State of Israel and the Jewish people. Hopefully, this study is a foundational piece for those exploring political linguistics, ideological discourse, and the rhetorical construction of international policy narratives.

Assessing SAARC’s Diplomatic Performance: Crisis Management, Regional Cooperation, and Institutional Challenges in South Asia

Khadija Shahbaz — 2025-05-26

This qualitative paper analyses the performance of SAARC diplomacy in view of regional and global upheavals, with special reference to its ability to manage political disputes, economic difficulties and social mistrust among the members. Based on content analysis of official SAARC documents, elite interviews, and academic literature, the study investigates how SAARC has managed diplomatic crises and advanced regional cooperation in the face of enduring obstacles, including bilateral disputes, geopolitical competition, and developmental discrepancies. The results indicate that while SAARC’s institutional mechanisms provide a forum for dialogue and the consensus building process, the organization’s diplomatic initiatives have frequently been hampered by political distrust and absence of monitoring mechanisms. At the same time, it also points out a few instances in which SAARC had contributed to confidence-building measures as well as conflict resolution processes and joint economic projects, which demonstrates its potential role as a regional stabilizer. The study also highlights the need for SAARC to strengthen its institutional infrastructure, cultivate more political will in its member countries, and adopt non-exclusive and more pragmatic diplomacy to control upheavals in the region. Finally, another related aspect that the contribution makes towards distilling the complex dynamics of regional diplomacy in South Asia while indicating future directions to reinforce the role of SAARC as an architect of peace, stability, and development.

Deepfakes’ Challenge to International Politics: Sowing Political Discord

Sobia Kafayat — 2025-05-29

This research aims to investigate the effect that deepfakes (as an evolving phenomenon) can have on International Politics (as it currently exists). Deepfake is a form of artificial intelligence that produces realistic fake videos, pictures, images, or text. The term deepfake technology combines “deep learning” and “fake.” Deepfakes can change the sources of original materials, such as voice, face, or images, by replacing one person with another. Deepfakes are becoming increasingly relevant in today’s digitized world due to their ability to create highly realistic yet fabricated content that blurs the distinction between reality and fiction. Based on a characterization of contemporary global politics, this study draws evidence from case studies. The research is qualitative and uses the secondary method of research. Though divergence among actors might naturally exist, discord sown by deepfakes reinforces the divisiveness, thus impacting international politics adversely. Remedial measures do not fall within the scope of this study.

Echoes of the Unspoken: A Study of Bowlby’s Attachment Theory and Intergenerational Trauma in Elif Shafak’s The Bastard of Istanbul

Iqra Saleem — 2025-06-02

This research paper aims to investigate fictional representation of intergenerational trauma in Elif Shafak’s The Bastard of Istanbul (2006) using John Bowlby’s “Theory of Attachment”. Shafak’s novel presents an intricately woven plot based on a multigenerational account of complex characters exposed to a heterogeneous blend of traumatic experiences which leave detrimental impact on their following generations. Utilizing Bowlby’s insights, this paper enunciates how remnants of an individual’s trauma are carried forward into his next generation through insecure attachment pattern within a parent-child relationship. After analyzing four consecutive generations of Kazanci family in Shafak’s novel, the study concludes that parent-child attachment relationships between Shafak’s characters are highly insecure and therefore remain instrumental in passing Shushan Kazanci’s complex childhood trauma across her following generations - ultimately leading to her great-granddaughter’s incestuous birth. This vicious chain of intergenerational trauma can only be broken with the victims’ resistance and resilience which Shafak’s characters lack

Work-Family Conflict, Social Support, and Anxiety in Adults

Saira Amjad — 2025-06-05

The present study examined the relationship between work, family conflict, social support and anxiety in adults .After detailed review of literature following hypothesis are formulated. There will significant relationship between work family conflict, social support and anxiety level in adults. The total number of sample was 294 from individuals who are employed whose age falls between 18 and 35 years. Demographic sheet were used to get the personal information about the participant. Work and family conflict scale was used to measure work family conflicts. The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) was used to measure the social support. The Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS) was used to measure the anxiety in adults. The study found that work-family conflict increases anxiety, but strong social support helps reduce this effect. Social support has a moderating effect on the relationship between work-family conflict and anxiety.

Impact of Doom Scrolling on Mental Well-being among Media Students in Karachi

Sobia Usman — 2025-06-12

This study assess the psychological effects of doom scrolling on the mental health of media students in Karachi. Doom scrolling the habitual consumption of negative news on social media has been linked to growing mental health issues, particularly among youth. This mixed-method study targeted undergraduate and postgraduate media students in Karachi. The population included students from seven universities: Iqra University (all campuses), University of Karachi, SZABIST, Bahria University, IOBM, Ilma University, and Indus University. A sample of 1000 students was selected via stratified random sampling for surveys, and 15 students exhibiting high doom scrolling behavior were chosen through purposive sampling for interviews. Tools included a structured questionnaire and a semi-structured interview guide. SPSS and thematic coding were used for analysis. A strong positive correlation (r = 0.672, p < 0.05) was found between doom scrolling and symptoms like anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and poor sleep. Interview responses validated these findings. Implement media literacy programs, provide mental health support, and promote healthy digital habits across university campuses.

Acts of Rebellion: The Subversion of Traditional Gender Roles and the Politics of Desire in Roy’s ‘The God of Small Things’

Rimsha Maqbool — 2025-06-12

This article investigates the ways in which Arundhati Roy’s The God of Small Things challenges and subverts traditional gender roles through subtle yet powerful acts of personal resistance. Set against the backdrop of a rigidly stratified South Indian society, the novel foregrounds characters—most notably Ammu, Rahel, and Velutha—whose lives and desires conflict with the dominant social order shaped by patriarchy, caste hierarchy, and cultural orthodoxy. Through Judith Butler’s Theory of Gender Performativity (1990) , the paper examines how personal desire becomes a form of political defiance. Ammu’stransgressive love, Rahel’s resistance to conventional femininity, and Velutha’s socially forbidden relationship with an upper-caste woman all reflect an intimate rebellion against structures that seek to discipline gender, sexuality, and identity. Roy’s narrative style—nonlinear, fragmented, and emotionally rich—further mirrors the thematic disruption of normative constructs. The research shows that ‘The God of Small Things’ doesn’t just tell a story about love, loss, and rebellion—it also critiques the rigid gender roles that dominate both family and society. Through the novel’s fractured narrative and multi-layered storytelling, Roy makes it clear that the tension between personal desires and societal pressures is not only heartbreaking but dangerous. By subverting traditional gender binaries and showing the consequences of breaking these rules, Roy reveals the deep scars that these societal constraints leave behind. The findings here open up many exciting possibilities for future research, especially in exploring how other postcolonial works handle gender and sexuality. Future studies could look at how queer identities challenge the national and social boundaries often seen in postcolonial literature. Roy’s portrayal of non-normative desires and rebellion invites ongoing conversations about gender fluidity and feminist movements, particularly in the Global South.