Academic Journal of Social Sciences (AJSS )

Effects of Instagram False Reality on Body Image among University Students of Pakistan

2024-11-21T05:42:36+05:00

Internet, especially the advent to social media has truly revolutionized the globe, making human beings more aware and more addicted at the same time. Social networking sites have been adopted by its users with immense speed, creating borderless social communities and spreading global trends with viral effects. It has also been observed that youth, being digital natives, is more active, persistent and creative user of such platforms. Hence, they are more into tendencies of freely sharing their thoughts, acts and ideals as well as adopting what matches their opinion and feelings. Female users, according to researches, have been found more effected by the social media, especially regarding body image, intra-sexual competition, body dissatisfaction and drive for thinness etc. It has been observed that body ideals cultivate distress and dissatisfaction among female users of social media. The apps and tools of photo editing and makeup filters further aggravated the effects of photo activity on social media. Instagram, as one of the leading social networking site, has multiple of such tools to craft false realities by editing photos. Such false realities have potential to create multiple effects on users, especially female users regarding the body image. This research, by inquiring 400 female university students of Lahore-Pakistan through a quantitative survey, intended to investigate how Instagram photo activity effects young respondents regarding body image, body dissatisfaction, intra-sexual competition and drive for thinness. The results revealed positive relationship between the use of Instagram photo activity and above said variables regarding body image.

Impact of Cash Flow Volatility on Capital Structure and Debt of Different Maturities

2024-08-17T08:04:54+05:00

The firm's capital structure is the most crucial decision to its operating and investment activities and it has been studied at both the academic and corporate levels. The purpose of this study is to investigate how different Pakistani listed companies' cash flow volatility may have an impact on their capital structure and the maturity of their debt. The research covers the years 2013 through 2022, and includes data from a total of 80 non-financial companies. The fact that multiple measures of capital structure and cash flow volatility have been used makes this study stand out as being particularly novel. The findings of the research indicate that capital structure and cash flow volatility have a significant and negative relationship with one another. This indicates that a one standard deviation increase in cash flow volatility will lead to a decrease of 0.24 in leverage. Our model accurately predicted, to a significant and negative connection between debt maturity and the volatility of cash flow. That means a decrease in debt maturity of 0.82 percentage points for every standard deviation in cash flow volatility. The results of this model suggest that when dealing with high levels of cash flow volatility, businesses should utilize debt with a shorter maturity. For the purposes of analysis, the OLS and GLM Logit link functions on SPSS have been utilized over the data.

Doublethink and Manipulation: Psychological Tyranny in Orwell’s 1984

2024-08-17T08:06:57+05:00

This academic paper explores the complex web of psychological manipulation orchestrated by Big Brother in George Orwell’s 1984, examining the profound impact on individuals' psychology. Drawing from a watchful analysis of the novel and of diverse scholarly articles on Orwell’s 1984, the theoretical framework integrates Hannah Arendt's "The Origins of Totalitarianism" and Dr. Robert Cialdini's "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion." The primary objectives is to unknot the complex dimensions of Big Brother's influence, exploring how totalitarianism shapes belief systems, utilizing doublethink as a manipulative tool and how they successfully persuade psychology. The research investigates the shades of psychological persuasion and analyzes Big Brother's mechanism of control, authority, and obedience. Doublethink, Newspeak, telescreens, and pervasive surveillance acted as a tool to manipulate precisely the collective mindset of the dystopian society, shaping individual and collective consciousness. Show casing the complexities of mind control in Orwell's dystopian masterpiece.

Psychosocial Environment, Burnout and Work Wellness among Physicians: Testing the Health Impairment Process of the Job Demands-Resources Theory

2024-08-17T08:08:05+05:00

Physician wellness is complex and multifaceted; individual, professional, and organizational factors might affect it. The demanding nature of the healthcare profession places physicians at an increased risk of burnout, adversely affecting their well-being and the quality of patient care. The present research investigates the intricate relationship between psychosocial demands, burnout, and work wellness in physicians, utilizing the framework of the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R; Bakker & Demerouti, 2001) Theory. Specifically, the study aims to test the Health Impairment Process, examining how psychosocial demands within the healthcare profession may lead to burnout and subsequently impact overall work wellness among physicians. The sample consisted of 251 medical doctors (n =102 women, n = 149 men). Copenhagen psychosocial questionnaire (COPSOQ; Psychosocial Department, National Institute of Occupational Health, Copenhagen, Denmark, 1997), Oldenburg burnout inventory (OLBI; Demerouti, Bakker, & Nachreiner, 1998), and the perceived wellness survey (PWS; Adams et al., 1997) were used for assessment of study variables. Pearson product-moment correlation revealed a positive relationship between psychosocial demands and burnout whereas psychosocial demands and burnout were negatively related to the well-being of physicians. Further, the model testing analysis showed that burnout mediates the relationship between psychosocial demands and diminished work wellness among physicians. The empirical support for the Health Impairment Process underscores the need for targeted interventions addressing psychosocial demands to mitigate burnout and enhance overall work wellness. By pinpointing specific stressors and their impact on physicians, this study offers valuable insights for developing evidence-based strategies to promote a healthier work environment in the medical field.

Political Economy of Regional Integration: A Case of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)

2024-08-17T08:09:47+05:00

The states are the collective political and economic manifestations of human behavior. Therefore, states act in similar manners as humans for their survival, security, growth, and development. History shows that states form groups, alliances, blocs, regimes, and integrations for their sustainable development. Sometimes, states compete with one another through military powers for their security and survival. Subsequently, military power and strength has been supplanted with economic security in the modern world. It has given birth to the regional integrations and connectivity for mutual growth and development of the regions, and it has also helped in the competition of one region against the other for establishing their power and strength. Each regional integration has political as well economic motives. In the same way, China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has its own political economy being part of Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which is latest example of regional integration in the recent times. CPEC has not only political and economic benefits for Pakistan, but it also provides ample opportunities to the country for regional connectivity and integration for sustainable economic growth and development. Therefore, it is significant to explore the implications of CPEC in terms of political, and economic which has been dealt in this research study through a qualitative research methodology. This study has revealed that CPEC has great political and economic insinuations for Pakistan, and it can help in the sustainable growth and development of the country if its diverse range of projects are governed effectively.

Great Power Rivalry in Indian Ocean: Implications and Options for Pakistan

2024-08-17T08:11:03+05:00

The Indian Ocean region holds immense significance due to its vital maritime trade routes and abundant natural resources. With intensifying China – U.S. competition for power in Indo-Pacific region, the geopolitical landscape in Indian Ocean is getting increasingly volatile. This research article delves into the geopolitical and strategic significance of the Indian Ocean and its evolving dynamics, primarily focusing on the perspectives of major global players: the USA, China, and India, and its impact on Pakistan. The study explores major developments currently taking place in Indian Ocean including China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), Quad alliance, AUKUS agreement, Indo-U.S. strategic cooperation, India's assertive naval buildup, and emergence of new form of asymmetric threats in maritime domain. In the backdrop of neorealist “balance of power theory”, the research elaborates how the hegemonic power competition is upsetting the balance of power, intensifying security dilemma, and igniting arms race in Indian Ocean region. These developments potentially undermine strategic stability in Indian Ocean which could eventually lead to conflicts. The research specifically examines the economic, political, and strategic implications of intensifying power rivalry in Indian Ocean on Pakistan. In addition the study also proposes feasible options for Pakistan to counter the destabilizing consequences of power politics in Indian Ocean.

Utilizing Social Media Platforms for Soft Power Projection in East Asia: The Role of Digital Diplomacy (2015-2025)

2024-08-17T08:13:05+05:00

Abstract

This research examines the role of social media platforms in facilitating digital diplomacy for soft power projection in East Asia. Employing quantitative examination, the study integrates comprehensively to understand diplomatic strategies in the region. Theoretical frameworks of soft power and network diplomacy guide the investigation into how East Asian governments strategically employ social media to enhance their international influence. The research highlights key events, such as diplomatic summits like the ASEAN Regional Forum and the East Asia Summit, cultural exchanges including China's Confucius Institutes and Japan's Cool Japan initiative, and public diplomacy campaigns like South Korea's K-pop diplomacy. These events serve as case studies to illustrate successful instances of digital diplomacy in practice. This interdisciplinary investigation contributes to a nuanced understanding of the interplay between social media, soft power, and international relations. Furthermore, beyond diplomatic summits and cultural exchanges, other noteworthy events such as crisis responses and public outreach campaigns also play a significant role in shaping perceptions and influencing international relations. For instance, the rapid dissemination of information and coordinated responses on social media during natural disasters or geopolitical tensions can demonstrate a country's competence, resilience, and willingness to collaborate with other nations. Similarly, public outreach campaigns that showcase a country's achievements in areas such as technology, healthcare, or environmental sustainability can enhance its reputation and attractiveness on the global stage. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, diplomats, and scholars aiming to leverage digital platforms for effective soft power projection in East Asia and beyond.

Keywords: Digital diplomacy, East Asia, soft power.

Embryonic World Order: Implications for Pakistan’s Foreign Policy, Geopolitical Agendas and Foreign Affairs

2024-08-17T08:14:11+05:00

The paper is a systematic review, based on secondary research outcomes and highlights the realism perspective which is of significant importance in understanding the post 9/11 emerging world order, realignments and implications for Pakistan, a thorough discussion has been made on by considering various aspects of the changing world order after 9/11. Based on the geopolitical state of Pakistan, it always has to stand the test of time and other external factors. This study has made a contribution by compiling and summarizing the important findings regarding the geo-economics, geo politics and other aspects of Pakistan’s foreign policy. The important concepts of world order, incident of 9/11 and impact on the foreign policy of Pakistan has been discussed. The research determines to serve objectives such as the Post 9/11 Emerging World Order, Realignments and Implications for Pakistan, the association of Pakistan’s present political and economic condition with relation to international orders and capture the current picture of the Pakistan’s emerging foreign policy and condition of international relations. The findings of the research illustrate how the incident of 9/11 has drastically changed the world economy, particularly of Pakistan. Since then, Pakistan has to bear a huge cost being a Muslim country and an ally to United States. Further the challenges and opportunities have been discussed with association to the present foreign policy realignments.

The Effectiveness of Problem Solving Therapy to Improve Quality of Life among University Students

2024-08-17T08:15:14+05:00

The present study investigated the effectiveness of problem-solving therapy in improving the quality of life among university students. From an undergraduate population, female participants (N = 30) were asked to complete the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF (1995) and were then randomly placed in the control group or the experimental group which then received eight sessions of problem-solving therapy. Problem-Solving Therapy: A Treatment Manual published in 2012 by Nezu, Nezu, and D’Zurilla was used. Once therapy was completed following the seven steps as outlined by the author, participants from both the experimental and control groups completed the World Health Organization Quality of Life BREF scale once again. This was an experimental design with an independent group design and a repeated measures design. Results showed that quality of life increased among participants in the experimental condition after receiving PST while it reduced in the control group. Receiving group problem-solving therapy was an effective intervention in increasing coping tendencies among individuals. Problem-solving therapy is a cognitive-behavioral intervention designed to help individuals cope with stressful life circumstances. Further research of this nature should attempt to control for extraneous variables in the participants’ environment. Campus counselors and educational social workers can benefit from applying the findings of this study. School psychologists can use Problem-solving therapy to increase the quality of life of students who may have various stressors.

A Household-level Food Insecurity in Hunza Valley, Pakistan: An Experience-based and Psychosocial Assessment

2024-08-17T08:16:08+05:00

Food security is an important phenomenon especially when its measurement goes beyond mere availability of food to its affordability and assimilation. The instant study employed a direct measurement of food insecurity at the household level in Hunza Valley, Gilgit Baltistan (GB), Pakistan. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) which is an experience-based tool to measure food insecurity at household level was used with certain adaptations and additional modules of socio-economic parameters. Primary data was collected on a structured questionnaire from 340 respondents during October to November, 2023. The representative sample was drawn by employing stratified random sampling technique to capture the difference in psychosocial assessment of food insecurity among population living in three distinctly separated locations of Hunza Valley i.e. Central Hunza, Lower Hunza and Upper Hunza. HFIAS was found to be a valid and consistent instrument for assessing the frequency and reliability of food accessibility in Hunza. It was observed that roughly four out of five households showed anxiety and uncertainty about food insecurity, and they were equally concerned about quality and quantity of food they consumed. Overall, 41.6% of households were food secure, 5.5% of households were mildly food insecure whereas 40.9% and 12.0% of households were found to be moderately food insecure and severely food insecure respectively. With respect to diversity of food insecurity, the Central Hunza was found to have better situation as compared with Lower Hunza and Upper Hunza.

Violations of International Humanitarian Law: A Case Study of Israel-Gaza Conflict

2024-11-21T05:42:24+05:00

International Humanitarian Law (IHL) considers as a foundation for regulating armed conflicts and safeguarding the rights of individuals affected by such conflicts. Despite its worldwide recognition, its application in various contentious circumstances, particularly exemplified by the Israel-Gaza conflict, remains a subject of intense discussion. Employing a qualitative research design, this paper explores the nuances of the Israel-Gaza dispute. It meticulously highlights numerous violations of IHL, encompassing breaches of its fundamental principles, including distinction, proportionality, neutrality, and humanity. These violations, attributed to both the Israeli Defense Forces and Hamas, underscore the formidable challenges in maintaining ethical and legal standards amidst ongoing warfare. This paper stresses the critical importance of addressing IHL violations within the Israel-Gaza conflict. It demands for accountability, ethical conduct, and genuine efforts toward peace and reconciliation. This article urges sustained actions for a lasting solution, highlighting the principal importance of adhering to IHL principles to guarantee long-term peace in the region. In addition, it accentuates the significance of international cooperation and support in fostering compliance with IHL and promoting a culture of respect for humanitarian norms. The paper stresses the need for impartial investigations into alleged violations of IHL and the prosecution of those responsible. It also calls for actions to increase the protection of civilians and humanitarian workers in conflict zones. By promoting adherence to IHL, this paper maintains, the international community can play a pivotal role in mitigating the humanitarian impact of armed conflicts and advancing the cause of peace and justice.

Exploring Biases in Recruitment through Social Media and Online Searches (SMOS)

2024-11-21T05:42:10+05:00

Many organizations claim to incorporate the idea of diversity, inclusion and equality while making hiring decisions. But why these decisions do not always reflect or support the claim of diversity and equality? The current study aims to answer this question by exploring the biases activated during Cybervetting that might account for this contradiction. The study used qualitative research design by conducting semi-structured interviews with 4 Human Resource professionals involved in online recruitment. Thematic analysis was performed using guidelines by Creswell and Creswell (2018). The study’s findings suggested that the use of Social Media and Online Searches (SMOS) by recruiters can initiate biases causing candidate’s rejection based on images or text discovered, or assumptions made during the cyber vetting process. The study found that there is a need to examine, expose, or even eradicate the influence of implicit and explicit bias when recruiters conduct background checks using online platforms. Interestingly, none of the participants verbalized the feeling that cyber-vetting was an invasion of the candidate’s privacy. However, it was seen as a justifiable means to ensure that the candidate would respectively fit the culture and organization. The present study sheds light on the importance that recruiters give to social media profiles, and awareness of biases prompted by pictures and content during SMOS. The study shall help recruiters in spotting these biases and need to design trainings that aim at guiding on eliminating such biases letting hiring process become efficient and bias-free.