Journal of Social Sciences Review (JSSR) is a Multidisciplinary peer-reviewed research journal. It aims to disseminate scientific information, high-quality research and spark discussion on Social Sciences (Miscellaneous) current issues.
Nishtar Degree College and School System
JSSR's Editorial Board shares the vision of providing free access to information, education, and science for everyone, thus promoting its content through an OPEN ACCESS POLICY, fulfilling the DOAJ definition of open access. The JSSR adheres to an Open Access and Copyright Licensing Policy based on the belief that making research freely accessible to the public promotes greater global knowledge sharing. The JSSR uses the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. The authors who apply and publish in JSSR consent to abide by the copyright policy set out in the Creative Commons 4.0 license (Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International license). Copyright in the Journal of Social Sciences Review is retained by the author(s). Authors also grant any third party the right to use the article freely as long as its integrity is maintained and its original authors, citation details and publisher are identified. While "By 'open access' to this literature, we mean its free availability on the public internet, permitting any users to read, download, copy, distribute, print, search, or link to the full texts of these articles, crawl them for indexing, pass them as data to software, or use them for any other lawful purpose, without financial, legal, or technical barriers other than those inseparable from gaining access to the internet itself."
Poverty, Parental Influence, and School Enrolment: A Study of Gender Differences
The effect of poverty, parental influence and school enrolment is explored and the gender difference in school going children in Pakistan is studied. Using a quantitative cross sectional survey design, a sample of 400 public and private school students from both urban and rural areas was selected through stratified random sampling technique. A five point likert scale was used to rate economic conditions, parental attitudes and decision making and enrolment patterns by gender using structured questionnaires. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, independent-simple t-test and multiple regression analysis in SPSS. Results show that poverty has a strong negative effect on school enrolment and parents' influence a strong positive effect. Gender disparities were significant; barriers to enrolment were greater for girls and the impact of poverty was greater for female students. The effect of economic hardships on enrolment was partially mediated by parental attitudes and decision-making, especially with respect to girls' enrolment. The study concludes that poverty reduction strategies need to be supported by specific interventions to raise awareness of parents, while taking into account gender-based disparities in education.
Copyright (c) 2026 Copyright in the Journal of Social Sciences Review is retained by the author(s). Authors also grant any third party the right to use the article freely as long as its integrity is maintained and its original authors, citation details and publisher are identified. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Children’s Lived Emotional Experiences of COVID-19 Lockdown Insights from Arts-Based Qualitative Study
Children have been especially vulnerable to the emotional impact of a large-scale crisis like an infectious disease outbreak. Events like the COVID-19 pandemic can disrupt day-to-day life, relationships, and sense of stability for children, and impact their mental health and wellbeing. This study aimed to explore how children in Pakistan experienced and made sense of their emotional wellbeing during the COVID-19 lockdown, using an arts-based qualitative approach that combined drawing with reflective diary writing. An arts-based qualitative approach design was used for this study. With parental consent, 23 children (11 boys and 12 girls) aged between 9 to 15 years participated; each had been home confined a minimum of 1 month. They were all provided with a drawing pad, diary and drawing tools and asked to document their thoughts, emotions and moods each day for a period of two weeks. They shared experiences in writing and drawing about loneliness, anxiety, sadness, and changes in attitudes and conduct. Focus group discussions were later held to understand their interpretations and meanings regarding their drawings and expressed thoughts. Children reported emotional stressors during lockdown, including fear of infection, loneliness, sadness, and ongoing worry. The virus was seen as a silent threat, creating uncertainty and insecurity. Loss of routine and limited social interaction worsened experiences, though children also showed resilience supported by family ties, parenting, creativity, and helping behaviors. The results indicate children faced emotional stressors like fear, loneliness, sadness, and worry during lockdown, seeing the virus as a silent threat. Routine loss worsened insecurity, yet resilience emerged through family ties, supportive parenting, creativity, and helping behaviors.
From Filters to Feelings: A Qualitative Exploration of Self-Image and Emotional Experience among Snapchat Users
The qualitative study was conducted with purpose to explore self-image and emotional experiences among Snapchat users. Snapchat launched in 2011 as mobile application stands out as a social media platform which provides distinctive avenue for self-expression. Literature showed influence of Snapchat use on individual’s self-image, perception, psychological and emotional wellbeing and experience. In current research semi-structured interviews were conducted from 15 regular Snapchat Users (N=15). Ten women (n=10) and five men (n=05) between age 18 to 35 were informed and briefed about the purpose of conducting this study. Thematic analysis conducted. Majority of respondents reported that use of this app and applying filters has impact on their self-image while few reported no impact. Similarly participants explored significant emotional experiences by using this app. They reported effect of Snapchat filters use on their mood, confidence, self-esteem and emotional reactions. Subjects also talked about purpose to use this app like spending time, taking snaps with filters, location spy, making streaks with friends, social connections, snap points etc. Respondents explored that use of Snapchat filters raise the beauty standards and also leads to stress. Subjects mentioned about filtered and unfiltered images are different and posting such images can increase their concerns what other might be thinking about them. Participants reported that with time they may lose interest and its responsibility of user to use this app carefully. This study will aim to contribute to the existing literature on exploring self-image and emotional experiences are affected by Snapchat, specifically in Pakistani culture and society.
Core-Curriculum Objectives and Assessment Practices: A Comparative Study of Public and Private Elementary Schools of District, Dera Ismail Khan
With a focus on how advancements in cognitive science have changed our understanding of assessment, this research examines the connections between curriculum, teaching, and assessment. Since instructors have witnessed pupils struggle to apply classroom abilities outside of the classroom, traditional paper-and-pencil examinations are increasingly viewed as being out of step with active learning. In order to address classroom issues at the primary level, the research sought to create an outcome-based core curriculum, beginning with a clear vision and learning outcomes. Additionally, it concentrated on identifying the assistance that students with disabilities need to participate in general education and making the core curriculum accessible to them. Head teachers' and elementary school teachers' opinions suggested that the core curriculum was useful for formative assessment. 50% of head teachers and 42% of instructors in public schools strongly agreed, compared to 53% and 73.3% in private schools. The null hypothesis was accepted as the investigation revealed no discernible difference in the opinions of stakeholders in public and private schools. The study concludes by highlighting the importance of an outcome-based curriculum and the necessity of ensuring that children with impairments are included. Similar stakeholder attitudes across public and private elementary schools are revealed, and the relevance of the core curriculum in formative evaluation is highlighted.
Copyright (c) 2025 Copyright in the Journal of Social Sciences Review is retained by the author(s). Authors also grant any third party the right to use the article freely as long as its integrity is maintained and its original authors, citation details and publisher are identified. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Institutional Contexts as Predictors of Transferable Skills Development among Pakistani Undergraduates
Across the globe, universities emphasize transferable skills development and equip learners with the multidimensional capabilities needed to navigate contemporary workplace demands. Transferable skills are defined as generic skills or cross‑contextual proficiencies that include communication, problem‑solving, analytical, critical, creative and innovative thinking, teamwork, interpersonal, and self‑directed learning skills. This study aims to assess institutional context variables as predictors of transferable skills development among undergraduates. A causal‑comparative research design was employed. Using a stratified random sampling technique, 597 undergraduates enrolled in three public sector universities of Sindh province, Pakistan completed the survey questionnaires. Descriptive findings indicate that learners demonstrated below‑average levels of transferable skills in analytical and critical skills, teamwork and interpersonal skills, academic communication skills, creative thinking and innovation skills, and self‑directed learning skills. Furthermore, institutional factors such as university context, departmental affiliation, year of study, and residential status emerged as significant predictors of transferable skills development among undergraduates. Learners registered in the University of Sindh showed relatively higher levels of transferable skills compared to students enrolled in GC University Hyderabad and Shah Abdul Latif University, Khairpur. Students belonging to Education programs also exhibited greater transferable skills than learners in Natural Sciences, Arts, Commerce, Social Sciences, and Computer‑related disciplines, highlighting the importance of pedagogical orientation and curriculum design. Year‑wise academic progress further revealed that sophomores reported superior transferable skill sets compared to freshmen, juniors, and seniors. Additionally, out‑of‑campus learners displayed a greater extent of transferable skills than hostel residents. For policy implications, universities should set national benchmarks and initiate targeted interventions to ensure continuous skill advancement.
Transitivity and the Construction of Skepticism in Song: Go and Catch a Falling Star by John Donne
The study analyzes transitivity choices in John Donne's poem “Song: Goe, and Catche a Falling Star” to show how grammatical structure is utilized in building the poem's theme of skepticism and disillusionment. While the poem is generally interpreted in terms of its witty imagery and sarcastic tone, this research discusses how the different sense is created at the clause level through the distribution of process types, participants, and circumstances. Based on Halliday and Matthiessen’s (2014) system of transitivity and adopting a qualitative approach, this research uncovers how language choices contribute to meaning in literature. The analysis reveals that material processes are salient in the initial stanzas with connotations of purposeful action but are ironically paired with impossible tasks, thereby eliminating the possibility of meaningful achievement. In contrast to this, the final stanza resorts to relational processes, which give existence judgments, such as the non-existence of faithful women. Verbal and mental processes similarly signal the failure of the speaker to understand or communicate truth. The participants are rather abstract and generic which ensures the universality of the speaker's disillusionment. Circumstances exaggerate time, space, and extent for the purpose of heightening futility. The study shows that Donne's skeptical view of the universe is expressed not only thematically but also lexically, highlighting the role of a transitivity in literary works.
Impact of the Lingokids AI-Based Intervention on Classroom Engagement, Social Interaction, and School Attendance of Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder
The article analyzed the effect of the Lingokids AI-based intervention on social interaction, classroom engagement, and attendance of a student with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A multiple-baseline across-behaviors single-subject experimental design (SSED) was used. One student with ASD was selected using a purposive sampling method. The assessment was done using the Structured Observation-based Rating Scale of School Participation in the baseline, intervention, and maintenance. Data analysis was done using visual analysis and Tau-U effect size. Findings showed definite improvements across all areas. The levels of classroom engagement were raised at the baseline (12) and maintained at the maximum level (4). Social interaction increased to the higher levels (3.3-4) as compared to the baseline (1-2). There was an immediate improvement in attendance and punctuality between 1 and 4. The analysis of effect size showed that baseline to intervention effects were very large (Tau-U = 0.95-1.00, p <.001) and moderate maintenance effects. The single-subject design restricts generalization. It needs more studies with more extensive samples and a longer period. The results indicate the use of AI-based applications to improve the engagement and participation of students with ASD in classrooms. The research gives empirical data about the success of Lingokids in enhancing various areas of school involvement in a natural classroom setting.
Disciplinary Frameworks and Behavioural Outcomes in Secondary Education: Evidence from Taxila, Rawalpindi
Discipline is a vital aspect of human nature, reflecting one’s personality and acting as a major agent for success. This paper examines the function of discipline in education and its relation to behaviour formation among secondary students in Taxila, Rawalpindi. The research was conducted through a descriptive cross-sectional survey. The sample consisted of 698 students from classes 9 and 10 and 157 teachers of government girls’ secondary schools of Taxila, Rawalpindi. From these, 120 teachers and 240 students were selected through simple random sampling. Two questionnaires on a five‑point Likert scale were developed: one for teachers with 10 items on discipline, and one for students with 25 items on behaviour types including caring, kindness, loyalty, friendship, and politeness. The tools were checked by experts and pilot-tested, showing good reliability (Cronbach’s α = 0.79). Statistical techniques used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean scores, and Pearson correlation. All teachers agreed that discipline plays a crucial role: 100% stated that discipline creates a learning environment (M=4.75) and forms the foundation of student success (M=4.87). Majorities also agreed that disciplined students are strong individuals (83%, M=4.42), discipline results in social development (84%, M=4.42), disciplined students are punctual (91%, M=4.68), discipline builds positive attitudes (92%, M=4.68), imparts confidence (86%, M=4.45), enhances focus (85%, M=4.45), leads to self-control (87%, M=4.49), and improves academic performance (91%, M=4.58). Students showed positive behaviours in caring, kindness, loyalty, friendship, and politeness. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between discipline and all behaviour types.
Perceived Role of Homework in Fostering Study Habits Among Primary School Students in Wah Cantt, Rawalpindi, Punjab
More homework should not necessarily equate less learning, as it is the skill development that matters. However, the rapid increase in homework volume over the years has led to misunderstandings about the effectiveness of homework and students' study habits. Studies worldwide have shown that study habits and homework are related, but research in Wah Cantt, Rawalpindi, Punjab has been scarce. The present research aimed to find out whether homework has a part in nurturing study habits of primary school pupils in Wah Cantt, Rawalpindi, Punjab. Primary students' academic behaviors, time management, note-making practices, and learning attitudes were examined to determine the impact of homework. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey design with a quantitative approach was used. The target population was primary school students in Wah Cantt, Rawalpindi, Punjab. Through simple random sampling, 255 students were selected. A questionnaire based on a five-point Likert scale (1=Strongly Disagree to 5=Strongly Agree) was developed, covering general study habits, note-making habits, time management, guidance and consultation, and homework effectiveness. The tool was validated by three educational experts and pilot-tested, showing good reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.79). Frequencies, percentages, and mean scores were used for data analysis. Results showed that 95% of students agreed they cannot study without hard work (M=4.76); 92% agreed they listen carefully during note-taking (M=4.12); 89% agreed they prepare and read notes (M=4.69); 92% agreed teacher guidance improves reading habits due to homework (M=4.12); and 89% agreed they have specific timetables (M=4.69). The study concludes homework plays a significantly positive role in developing study habits.
Poverty Mitigation, Digital Technology, and Foreign Direct Investment: ARDL Based Evidence from Pakistan
This research investigates the effect of digital technology on poverty lessening in Pakistan from 1990 to 2022. The poverty headcount ratio is incorporated as the dependent variable, and the analysis integrates digital technology, GDP per capita, labor force participation, inflation, external debt, and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) being key explanatory variables. The study uses the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and bounds testing approach(s) to examine long-run and short-run relationships. Long-run estimates disclose that digital technology and GDP per capita significantly decrease poverty. The findings propose that digital technology serve as an operative tool for poverty mitigation in Pakistan when supported by prudent management of debt, comprehensive growth policies, and macroeconomic stability.
Compliance with International Humanitarian Law IHL) in U.S.–Israel Military Operations
This study examines compliance with International Humanitarian Law IHL in U.S.–Israel military operations, focusing on principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution. Using doctrinal and analytical research methods, it evaluates legal frameworks, state practice, and reported conduct in recent conflicts. The findings indicate partial adherence alongside credible allegations of violations, highlighting gaps between legal obligations and operational realities, and underscoring challenges in accountability and enforcement mechanisms. This research article examines the extent of compliance with IHL in military operations involving the United States and Israel, particularly in the context of recent conflicts in Gaza and the broader Middle East. It evaluates key legal principles such as distinction, proportionality, and precaution, and analyses allegations of violations, the role of U.S. military assistance, and mechanisms of accountability. The study argues that while both states formally commit to IHL norms, significant concerns persist regarding their practical implementation, enforcement, and the politicization of compliance assessments.
Psychosocial Factors Leads to Vape Addiction In Young Adult
In todays rapidly changing world, the use of E-Cigrates has been increasing in young and adults in Pakistan. This study reveals that how young adults is and how they perceive it. The objective typically involves exploring the psychosocial factors that leads people to Vape and the mindset of people that encourage them to use vaping devices. The study has used Qualitative research design by taking one-on-one interviews, which involves 6 participants that consist of only males. Purposive sampling and thematic analysis were used to have a better understanding of what are the psychosocial factors that leads young adults to vape. The interview was taken by 60 to 90 minutes. The sample size was 6 males which are under 15 to 25 years of age. Those people who are unmarried and falls under this age was population sample. "Nicotine needs were fulfilled by other source which falls in addictive behavior. Peer pressure also influences vaping behavior, while environmental factors like acceptance in workplaces or offices promote its use. Additionally, lack of self-control, often due to the easy availability of vape devices, contributes to vaping. Brainstorming, or mind activity, helps keep oneself busy and facilitates content writing or productivity during working hours, stimulating thinking. Curiosity, or taking an interest in vaping skills or actions, can lead to vaping, often driven by social media content." Girls should be included to understand the perspective of females regarding vape behavior. This can be helpful for have a better generalization of population. Should spent more time on interviews to gather more and authentic information.
Shariah Supervisory Board Diversity, Sustainability Disclosure, and Bank Performance: Evidence from Pakistan
This paper examines the relationship between sustainability disclosure and the performance of Pakistani Islamic banks, focusing on whether the diversity of the Shariah Supervisory Board (SSB) improves this relationship. The increasing relevance of sustainability transparency in the banking industry and the specific role of Shariah governance in Islamic financial institutions drive the theoretical framework used in the research, combining stakeholder theory and the resource-based view. The authors suggest that sustainability disclosure complements legitimacy, addresses information asymmetry, and enhances stakeholder trust, while SSB diversity serves as an intangible governance ability that can enhance the strategic advantages of disclosure. The paper employs a Sustainability Disclosure Index that encompasses general, economic, environmental, and social dimensions, alongside a composite SSB Diversity Index that incorporates demographic, educational, and professional heterogeneity, utilizing longitudinal panel data of Islamic banks in Pakistan from 2005 to 2024. The primary measure of financial performance is the return on assets (ROA), with the Tobin Q used as a strength check. The results indicate that sustainability disclosure positively impacts bank performance, SSB diversity positively influences performance, and the interaction between the two variables is positive, suggesting greater benefits for banks with more diverse SSBs. The paper combines sustainability disclosure, Shariah governance, and performance under a single framework and provides empirical evidence from Pakistan, a significantly sized but under-researched market in Islamic banking. The results have implications for policymakers, particularly the State Bank of Pakistan, and Islamic bank board managers, who must align governance quality, sustainability credibility, and financial performance.
Does Modernization Drive Change in the Family Institution? Urbanization's Impact on Evolving Social Structure: A Quantitative Study
In the context of modernization, especially with reference to urbanization, the family institution is transforming from traditional joint to nuclear structures through the reshaping of multifaceted aspects of the family institution. This quantitative study examines whether modernization, particularly through urbanization, drives changes in the family institution within Pakhtun social structures in District Swat. The data from 250 respondents were collected via a questionnaire. The data analysis was carried out via SPSS, including univariate frequency distributions, agreement indices (AI), descriptive statistics, bivariate chi-square tests, multivariate controls, and Cronbach's alpha (α = 0.715–0.86) for reliability. Findings reveal that 67.2% of respondents reside rurally, yet modernization impacts are evident: 82.8% agree nuclear families outperform joint ones (AI = 1.148); family sizes are declining (72.4% agree, AI = 0.912); women's decision-making empowerment is rising (74.4% agree, AI = 0.86); and individualism/materialism is growing (85.2% agree, AI = 1.264). Bivariate analysis shows significant positive associations between urbanization indicators and high institutional shifts (χ² = 29.847–37.267, p < .001; Gamma = 0.263–0.411). Multivariate controls for family type confirm stronger effects in nuclear families (χ² = 17.271, p < .001) than in joint families (χ² = 28.635, p < .001), with overall AI = 0.89, affirming modernization's influence. Results support modernization theory, highlighting urbanization's role in evolving family norms amid cultural resilience.
Development and Factorial Validation of a Time Management Scale for Students
Time management is a very important factor that predicts a student’s academic success and overall mental health, thus an effective system for managing time is critical to a student being successful. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate an instrument to assess the time management behaviors of university students in Pakistan. To achieve this goal, two phases were conducted. The first phase involved generating an item pool by deductive reasoning, having experts review the items and the modifications were made accordingly. The second phase consisted of a cross-sectional study using a sample of university students (340) to collect data for factor analysis (exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)). The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin measure was (.80) and the results of a Bartlett’s test of sphericity were significant, thus indicating that the sample was adequate to conduct a factor analysis. After EFA four factors were retained. Later on, CFA demonstrated strong fit indices (GFI=951, CFI =951, TLI=916) for the four-factor model that were labeled as: Goal Setting, Prioritization, Time Estimation, and Planning. Overall, results indicate that the TMS appears to be a reliable and valid measure that can be used for assessing time management behaviors in academic settings.
Who Deserves Full Membership? Prospective Teachers' Constructions of Citizenship, Personhood, and Disability in Punjab's Initial Teacher Education
This qualitative research study explores pre-service teachers’ conceptions of citizenship, personhood, and disability in the context of pre-service teacher education in Punjab, Pakistan. Telephonic interviews were conducted with 12 pre-service teachers pursuing teacher-training in Punjab using the semi-structured life-world interview protocol. TurboScribe was used to perform the translation and transcription, and the subsequent analysis was done in NVivo 15 in the form of meaning condensation and thematic coding. The findings provided three themes: (1) conditional citizenship expressed in the form of deficit discourse; (2) disputed personhood expressed in terms of normative expectations; and (3) pedagogical ambivalence expressed in connection with inclusive education. Most pre-service teachers' dominant themes explained disabled students as objects of care, but not as rights-bearing citizens, thus placing the disability beyond the frame of full community membership. The research thus explains why teacher education reproduces the exclusionary ideas of citizenship, thus urging the high-stakes necessity of transformational pedagogical interventions that acknowledge the personhood and democratic participation of disabled students.
Family Functioning, Emotional Intelligence and Suicidal Tendencies among Adolescents
The current study was planned with the aim to measure the relationship among family functioning, emotional intelligence and suicidal tendencies in adolescents by using a cross sectional survey research design. Through multi-stage stratified sampling, a sample of 1000 adolescents’ age ranging from 13–19 years was recruited from schools and colleges of Gujrat, Pakistan. The General Functioning of Family Scale was used to collect data on general functioning (Kareem et al., 2022), the Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale was employed to collect data on emotional intelligence (Zahra et al., 2024), and the Suicidal Tendencies Scale(Kausar & Fatima 2024) was used to collect data on suicide tendencies. Analysis of Pearson correlation showed significant negative relationships among suicidal tendencies, family functioning (r = −0.431, p < 0.01) and emotional intelligence (r = −0.209, p < 0.01). ANOVA and t -test results showed significant differences in emotional intelligence of adolescents (F = 39.29, p = 0.001) in relation to the maternal education. Further, the females had higher emotional intelligence as compared to the males (p = 0.002). Conversely, the gender and a family structure (nuclear & joint) did not have a significant influence on suicidal tendencies. The findings highlight the importance of the systemic interventions, implying that the enhancement of the family cohesion and incorporation of the emotional literacy programs into the educational curriculums are key measures in preventing suicide among the adolescents.
Impact of Conditional Cash Transfer on Out of School Children: A Case Study Of Waseela E Taleem Program In Sindh, Pakistan
The research examined the effect of the conditional cash transfer (CCT) Program on decreasing the amount of out of school children in Sindh. Benazir Income Support Program (BISP) introduced the WET Program, aimed at kids aged from 04 to 12 years from the households for the school enrollment and maintain more than 70 percentage of attendance to achieve the PKR 750 per kid to support schooling costs. To analyze the impact of CCT on increasing the enrollment and attendance in school of those children who have been out of the school in the Mirpurkhas & Naushroferoz districts of Sindh and to examine the challenges and limitations which may hinder the results. The study has gathered the household data from questionnaire survey to find the outcomes. Furthermore, there were several execution challenges including infrastructure of teacher and availability of teachers, and to monitor the attendance in remote areas CCT program provides a promising opportunity to decrease the OOS children in Sindh. However, its positive effect mainly depends on the investment in school infrastructure and improved monitoring on attendance and better incentives mainly in the context of poverty and poor supply of education. Rao-soft online sample size calculator was used to compute the sample of this research. The 271-sample size figure was calculated with a 95% confidence level and a 5% margin error. Parents/guardians of children aged 5–16 years Registered under the Waseela-e-Taleem (WeT) Program Living in MirpurKhas & Nashroferoz districts of Sindh was selected as the target audience for the study.
Impact of Teachers’ Challenges And Professional Development in Blended Learning on Students’ Personalization
This study investigates how teachers' implementation challenges and professional development in blended learning influence the personalization of student learning experiences. Conducted in public sector universities of Southern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the research employed a quantitative descriptive design. Data were collected from 148 teachers and 341 students using researcher-designed questionnaires. Findings revealed specific obstacles faced by educators and the nature of training they received. Statistical analysis through linear regression was used to determine the significant impact of these teacher-focused factors on the level of personalization attained by students, testing the formulated hypothesis. The study concludes that targeted professional development addressing key implementation challenges is crucial for translating the potential of blended learning into effective, personalized student outcomes.
Learning, Networking, and Venture Aspirations: Understanding Social Media’s Role in Student Entrepreneurial Intentions
The theoretical and empirical literature on the influence of social media on the entrepreneurial intentions of university students in Pakistan remains limited. This study aimed to address this gap by examining how social media affects entrepreneurial intentions through the application of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and Social Learning Theory (SLT). Primary data were collected using psychometric questionnaires during the first phase and semi-structured interviews with twelve participants during the second phase. An explanatory sequential design was adopted, involving 300 undergraduate students in Lahore at the initial stage. Subsequently, twelve participants were purposefully selected based on the testing framework established in the first phase. Structural Equation Modelling (SmartPLS 4) was employed for analysis. The quantitative findings revealed that social media positively and significantly predicted entrepreneurial intentions through perceived opportunities available on these platforms. However, perceived misinformation, distractions, and digital risks demonstrated a significant negative relationship with entrepreneurial self-efficacy. These findings were supported by the qualitative interviews, where students viewed social media as a tool for opportunity recognition, role modelling, networking, and skill development. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and LinkedIn were identified as accessible entrepreneurial learning communities. At the same time, students highlighted risks including online scams, unrealistic expectations, information overload, and misleading content.The study concludes that social media functions as a double-edged sword, influencing both cognitive learning (attitudes, norms, and perceived control) and social learning (modelling and reinforcement) in shaping entrepreneurial intentions. The findings suggest that universities in Pakistan should promote guided digital entrepreneurship and social media education to support effective new venture development.
Students’ Motivation and Attitude towards the Choice of Computer Science as a Subject at Secondary School Level
The study aimed at identifying the connection between motivation and attitude of students towards computer science and also identifying the differences in gender with regard to motivation and attitude towards the choice of computer science as a subject. Research was descriptive—a sample population of 300 (150 males and 150 females) secondary school pupils. The attitude and motivation towards computer science of students were measured by a self-developed questionnaire. The results showed that there was a significant positive correlation between the motivation of the students and their attitude toward the choice of computer science as a subject. The analyses based on genders showed that male students had a slightly higher attitude and even motivation than their female counterparts. The results emphasized the need to create positive attitudes and motivation in students in order to increase their interest and attention to computer science. Moreover, the existing differences in gender in relation to attitudes and motivation indicate that both interventions and specific strategies should be implemented to facilitate the creation of equal opportunities and address the motivation of male and female students.
Copyright (c) 2024 Copyright in the Journal of Social Sciences Review is retained by the author(s). Authors also grant any third party the right to use the article freely as long as its integrity is maintained and its original authors, citation details and publisher are identified. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effect of Inquiry-based Teaching (IBT) in Second Language Pedagogy on Students’ Academic Achievement
In Pakistani education, English as a second language plays a vital role. It is taught as a compulsory subject to the students for fourteen years. Despite the fact, the standard of proficiency in English language is falling due to inappropriate methodologies employed in language pedagogy at school and college level, consequently students find English language as a barrier in pursuit of achieving excellent careers. The study attempts at finding out the impact of using inquiry based teaching (IBT) on students’ achievement scores. IBT refers to involving students through question-answer mechanism to understand the concept under study. Experimental research with pre-test post-test control group design was conducted on a total of 156 students of VI grade, 78 students in experimental and 78 in control group for two months. The sample was selected as an intact group. An achievement test was administered to collect data from students. The data of 25 students from each group with 80% or above attendance was analyzed. The results of the study show that IBT methodology has positively significant effect on students’ achievement score. Therefore the second language teacher may use IBT to enhance students’ achievement score. Furthermore the study may be replicated for the use of IBT in second language teaching at different academic levels.
Iran and Venezuela as Energy Insurance: How Access to Heavy Sour Crude Shapes U.S. Refining Resilience, Defense Fuel Budgets, and Contingency Planning in a Strait of Hormuz-Centered Iran Crisis
This paper is concerned with access to Venezuelan heavy sour crude as an energy insurance mechanism in the US with a back up that occurred in the middle of Strait of Hormuz and which implicates Iran. The paper focuses on crude oil quality and refinery flexibility instead of aggregate oil supply with emphasis on the fact that O.U. Gulf Coast refiners possess the best processes to accept heavy and high-sulfur feedstocks like Venezuela. Recent policy and market flows show that ordering Venezuelan crude to the U. S refiners could narrow heavy-sour gaps, retain refinery activity hairy, and cover refined-product volatility over periods of world strains during oil supply provision. Such dynamics in the energy market are associated with military readiness, the spread of oil price dynamics to the budgets of the Department of Defense fuel, operational pace, endurance, etc. Peripheral admittance of congruent heavy crude in case of Middle East derailments to create market shock can reduce the level of pricing outbursts which suffocates long-term operations. Despite sanctions, quotas, and geopolitical competition, Venezuelan heavy crude represents a strategically important tool of establishing U.S. potential operations resilience, strategic flexibility and crisis calculus in the event of a potential conflict with Iran.
Generative Artificial Intelligence in Marketing Capabilities and Customer Engagement: A Systematic Literature Review
The recent spread of generative artificial intelligence (GAI) is transforming how companies form marketing competencies and interact with their clients, but current literature is still disjointed between fields and views. The present research is based on the systematic literature review in order to synthesize the work that was done on GAI in marketing previously, explain its role in improving marketing attributes and customer relationships, and find out uncovered issues and research directions. The review covers the necessity of an integrative synthesis supporting cumulative theory progression and informed managerial decision-making Adopting a systematic literature review method, the study reviews peer-reviewed journal articles devoted to the generative AI application in marketing. The review summarizes both conceptual and empirical research in various methodological traditions to analyze prevailing themes, theoretical underpinnings, technology enablers, organizational influences, and governance concerns defining AI-based marketing practices to reinforce customer engagements. Nonetheless, the results of adoption are largely determined by data governance, ethical issues, organizational preparedness, and human-AI collaboration systems. This paper presents a unified framework of connections between generative AI, marketing capacities, and customer participation, in addition to emphasizing important gaps in the research and providing an ordered agenda on the direction of future investigation.
Emotional Regulation and Marital Adjustment among Pregnant Women Across all Trimesters: A Comparative Study
The present study is intended to measure the emotional regulation and marital adjustment among pregnant women across all trimesters. The cross sectional design was carried out at Department of Psychology, University of Gujrat. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the sample. Data collected from the community, public and private hospitals. The construct were measured using translated version of Dyadic Adjustment Scale (Sana & Riaz, 2015) and Multidimensional Emotional Questionnaire (Shahid & Mushtaq, 2023). For data analysis, regression, independent t-test, cluster analysis and ANOVA were employed. Among 420 pregnant women the results of the ANOVA indicated that pregnant women have lower level of emotional regulation (M= 28.3929) and marital adjustment (M= 75.5000) during first trimester. The study shown that pregnant women from joint family have low marital adjustment and emotion regulation. Further, findings revealed that emotional regulation negatively predicted marital adjustment (β = -.443, p< .001). Women with high emotional intelligence understand and manage their own and others’ emotions well. They handle emotional reactions better than those with low emotional regulation. This ability helps them make positive adjustments in their married life. When the findings are examined in depth, it becomes obvious that pregnant women do not receive the attention they deserve. The majority of the worries have related to the symptoms are concerned about the state of their finances, family support, understanding or the health of their child. They require help as well as guidance from healthcare providers. This study will be useful for the heath and clinical settings to spread awareness for pregnant women, how to control the psychological issues along with health problems.
Socio-Economic Factors Affecting Mental Health of Young Female Students of Punjab, Pakistan
Worldwide, women are at higher risk of developing mental disorders than men. The available research from developing nations shows that women have more psychological and social vulnerabilities. Pakistan is a developing country with immense challenges for women, such as socio-economic disadvantages. There is a scarcity of research in Pakistan looking at the Socio-economic Status (SES) of young female students and their association with mental health issues. This research aimed to find out the association of SES with mental health problems among unmarried female students of Punjab, Pakistan. The study was based on a cross-sectional descriptive research design. The independent variables were the socioeconomic factors, and the dependent variable was poor mental health. The data and the assessment of psychological morbidity among the study population were collected using the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-12) and a self-designed questionnaire. All the frequencies and percentages were computed using descriptive statistics, and a Chi-Square test was carried out to determine the relationship between dependent and independent variables. The study would be a significant addition for the identification of mental health risks among young women, which can be utilized by policy-makers and NGOs, particularly working for women's empowerment. The study would also provide a knowledge base for future studies in this area.
Is the UK Constitution Really a Secular?
It is interesting to note that the British society, which bears a symbol of secularism, owns an uncodified constitution that possesses significant religious characteristics, pertaining not only to a particular religion (Christianity) but also to a particular denomination (protestant). These constitutionally evolved religious features are generally neglected in the British constitutional discourse and debates for the reason that the British constitution is presumed to be a secular constitution whereas the facts state otherwise as it bears several significant historical statutes which mark its religious relevance. Moreover, such a presumed impression of constitutional secularism of the UK tends to be generally misleading various circles and quarters of the Pakistani society; which may potentially result into a motivation for socio-political campaigns in Pakistan for the same pursuit based on the misunderstood constitutional position of the UK. Thus, this article attempts to highlight those significant religious documents, Acts and conventions which provide ample evidence that the UK constitution is not a secular constitution for several reasons such as its historical recognition for deep-rooted nexus between the constitutional monarchy, Parliament and Established Church of England and Scotland. In addition, the legal framework of the UK also contains strong and significant religious representations in all the three military forces, state-funded schools and prisons across the UK.
Digital Deception and Agenda Setting: A Qualitative Analysis of Fake News, False Narratives and Misinformation in TLP’S Aqsa March on Social Media
The undertaken research explored the perpetuation of fake news and misinformation trends as strategic tools of agenda setting and negative propaganda in digital political landscape of Pakistan analyzing social media content in the recent Al Aqsa march of TLP. The study has adopted qualitative research design to interpret the emotional narratives, misinformation, online trends in the light of agenda setting and framing theories. The study adopted qualitative research design for content analysis of viral Facebook and X posts during protest to identify key patterns of digital agenda setting, narrative construction, religious framing and emotional mobilization through fake news, disinformation and misinformation. The findings concluded that misinformation was not limited merely to distorted images and facts yet they were part of strategic AI powered campaigns of computational propaganda by multiple sides. All the stakeholders used digital spaces for propagation of false narratives to frame themselves as victims in order to gain public support. The information vacuum and weapnization of digital spaces intensified the situation which later on turned into a volatile law and order situation.
Engagement of Vertical Shorts from Long Horizontal Videos: Content Analysis of Podcasts in Pakistan
The Audience engagement on digital media is a question in need for research introspection. The aim of the current research is to analyze audience engagement on vertical short-form videos and compare it with long-form horizontal videos in the scenario of podcasts in Pakistan. The data for the current research was collected from the leading Pakistani podcasters on YouTube and engagement of audience with their horizontal full length episodes and vertical short-form videos. The content analysis of their five most viewed podcasts of each podcaster and thematic analyses of experts interviews with the prominent podcasters and experts show that, vertical short-form entertainment with controversial and politically charged videos perform better than the knowledge-based videos. For knowledge-based videos, vertical formats need to be more digitally engaged.
The Impact of Entrepreneurial Education, Entrepreneurial Alertness, and Entrepreneurial Passion on Entrepreneurial Intentions of University Students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Entrepreneurship is an important driver of economic growth, innovation, and job creation. For developing countries like Pakistan, understanding what influences students’ intentions to start a business can help strengthen the entrepreneurial culture. This study examines how entrepreneurial education, entrepreneurial alertness, and entrepreneurial passion shape the intentions of university students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to pursue entrepreneurship A quantitative, cross-sectional design was used. Data came from 295 final-year business and commerce students in 17 public universities across KP. A structured questionnaire based on established scales from Linan and Chen (2006), Kaish and Gilad (1991), Phan et al. (2002), and Cardon et al. (2013) measured the core variables. SPSS v26 was used for descriptive analysis, correlations, and multiple regression. Reliability scores ranged from 0.70 to 0.87. Entrepreneurial education (β = 0.53, p < .001) and entrepreneurial passion (β = 0.50, p < .001) both showed strong positive effects on entrepreneurial intentions. Entrepreneurial alertness (β = 0.21, p < .05) had a smaller but positive impact. Together, the three predictors explained 48.8% of the variance in intentions (R = 0.699; R² = 0.488). Findings show that entrepreneurship education and the development of passion are key to encouraging students toward entrepreneurial careers, while alertness adds supportive influence. Universities should integrate practical experience and motivation-building elements to strengthen students’ readiness to become entrepreneurs.