ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences
type: channel
description: ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences (AIJSS) - HEC recognized Y Category Journal, the premier journal for academics, researchers, and enthusiasts that focus the subjects but not limit the fields of Archeology, Anthropology, Archival Studies, Economics, Econometrics, English Literature, Disaster Management, Accounting, Political Science, Public Administration, Defense and Strategic studies, International Relations, Management Science, Marketing, HR, Agriculture, Psychology including clinical, Industrial, and Developmental Psychology, Criminology, Philosophy, Sociology, Iqbal Studies/Iqbaliyat, Rural Development Studies, Social Work, Criminology, Library and Information Sciences, History, Demography and Population Studies, Ethnography, Conservation Studies, Religious Studies / Comparative Religion, Islamic Studies / Arabic Studies, Education, Special Education, Law and Legislature, Home Economics, Pakistan Studies, Peace & Conflict Studies, Behavioral Sciences, Women and Gender Studies, American /studies, Area Studies, Development Studies, Journalism, Mass Communication, Media Studies, Rural / Urban Studies, Women Studies. Announcement: Change in Publication Frequency Following the recommendation of the Editorial Board, we are pleased to announce that the journal has transitioned to a monthly publication schedule which was previously publishing on a quarterly basis. Effective from Oct, 2025 the journal will now publish monthly issues. This decision reflects our commitment to providing timely dissemination of high-quality research and to accommodating the growing volume of scholarly submissions. We thank our authors, reviewers, and readers for their continued support and look forward to serving the academic community with more frequent and impactful publications.
publisher: ACADEMIA (PVT) LTD
language: en
publication name: ACADEMIA International Journal for Social Sciences
issn: 3006-6638
items: Digital Competence as a Predictor of Trust in Artificial Intelligence among University Teachers in Pakistan's Public Sector Universities
items: Central Asia as the New Chessboard: Connectivity and Great Power Rivalry
items: An Eco linguistic Investigation on UN’s 17 SDGs: Measuring the Attitude, General Awareness and Opinions of EFL Teachers
items: Countering Cyber-Enabled Transnational Organized Crime in Pakistan: A Doctrinal Analysis of Gaps Between PECA 2016 and the UNTOC Framework and Pathways for Legal Harmonization
items: Training Artificial Intelligence on Copyrighted Works in Pakistan: A Doctrinal Analysis and Proposal for a Comprehensive Legal and Policy Framework
items: Identity Development Among Secondary School Students in Tehsil Sargodha Schools
items: Beyond the Traditional Landscape: Postmodern Transformations of Family Institution in Contemporary Pakistan
items: Childhood Parental Rejection and Adulthood Depression: Evidence from Gilgit, Pakistan
items: Drug Abuse and Youth Crime in Pakistan: An Empirical Investigation of the Relationship Between Substance Addiction and Juvenile Delinquency
items: Experiencing the Digital Attention Crisis in Adolescence: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study of Teachers’ and Parents’ Perspectives in Karachi
items: Digital Violence against Women in Pakistan: Bridging CEDAW Obligations and PECA Act
items: Impact of Sitting Habits and Study Posture on Musculoskeletal Health among University Student: A Cross Sectional Study
items: Seignorage: Past and Modern Exploitation
items: Evidence of Drug Abuse, Poverty, and Peer Pressure as Factors Affecting Juvenile Illegal Comportment in Pakistan
items: Exploring the Readiness and Anticipated Impact of Teacher Licensing Systems on Teacher Performance in Pakistan: Evidence from Structural Equation Modelling
items: Effect of Social Media and Belief in Fake News on Political Polarization
items: The Impact of Dividend Policy on Stock Price Volatility: Evidence from the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sectors of Pakistan
items: Designing Therapeutic Interior Environments for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Pakistan: An Evidence-Based Approach
items: Psychological Impact of Medical Education: Stress, Anxiety, Burnout, and the Mediating Role of Coping Mechanisms Among Medical Students
items: Exposure to AI-Generated Content, Body Image, and Self-Esteem Among Social Media Users: The Mediating Role of Body Image
items: Environmental Refugees in International Law: A Critical Assessment of Legal Status and Protection Deficits
items: Digital Identity Construction of LinkedIn Users: An Analytical Study of Discursive Practices
items: Evaluating the role of Poly-Victimization and Perceived Social Support in Suicidal Ideation Among University Students in Lahore, Pakistan
items: Prevalence and Association of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Problems and Low Back Pain with Prolonged Sketching Among Architecture Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
items: Problems Experienced by Undergraduate Students in Conducting Research in Online Distance Learning
items: Linking the Use of Artificial Intelligence and Undergraduate Students’ Critical Thinking Skills: The Mediating Role of Metacognitive Awareness
items: The Role of Work-Life Balance and Transformational Leadership on Job Satisfaction, Work Motivation, and Employee Productivity in Universities of Pakistan
items: Reconceptualizing "Force Majeure" and "Change in Law" in the Era of Climate Adaptation
items: Categorical Blindness? Disability and the Design of Cash-Based Social Protection in Pakistan
items: Expanding National Capacity: How Technical Certification Outscales Consulting in U.S. SME Digital Transformation

Digital Competence as a Predictor of Trust in Artificial Intelligence among University Teachers in Pakistan's Public Sector Universities
type: item
description: The greater the accumulation of artificial intelligence (AI) in higher education, the more opportunities there are for improving both teaching and learning, although concurrently the need for university teachers to have digital competence and to place trust in AI technologies becomes important. Yet there is still very little empirical evidence regarding teachers' digital competence and their trust in AI, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Therefore, this study examined digital competence as a predictor of trust in artificial intelligence among university teachers in Pakistan's public sector universities. A quantitative research approach was adopted using a cross-sectional correlational research design. The target population consisted of 12,073 university teachers, including 7,053 male and 5,020 female teachers employed in public sector universities across Punjab, Pakistan. A sample of 1201 was selected by using a multistage stratified simple random sampling technique. A total of 908 responses were received. A structured questionnaire consisting of two standardized instruments: Teacher’s Digital Competence Questionnaire (TDCQ) (Redecker, 2017), which comprised 22 items with reliability α=0.703 and the Trust in Artificial Intelligence scale (Nazaretsky et al., 2022), which consisted of 23 items with reliability α=0.915, was adapted to collect the data. The results specified a significant and positive relationship between digital competence and trust in AI. Higher education institutions should pay special attention to developing their university teachers' digital competence by ensuring the unremitting professional development of teachers as well as organizing training courses on AI and expanding the capacity of teachers to use AI in education.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Digital Competence
  topic: keywords
subject: Trust in Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: University Teachers
  topic: keywords
subject: Higher Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Noreen Rafiq
creator: Abdul Qayyum Chaudhry
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Noreen Rafiq, Abdul Qayyum Chaudhry (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1295
ending page: 1302
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2293

Central Asia as the New Chessboard: Connectivity and Great Power Rivalry
type: item
description: The countries of Central Asia were formerly seen as a major security threat to the United States, but in recent years, that perception has changed to one of necessity. The geopolitical and geostrategic landscape of Central Asia, which has been profoundly altered by the United States' ability to exercise military power in the region, must be well understood by policymakers. Furthermore, as opposing forces gain and lose prominence, the Central Asian landscape is constantly changing according to the interests of neighboring powers and the countries themselves. The enduring ideas of Sir Halford Mackinder's Heartland Theory have prompted a careful examination of their significance in the complex field of modern world geopolitics. This academic paper investigates how these ideas fit into the changing modern environment. According to the Heartland Theory, the Middle East could have a big impact on countries. This essay explores this idea and how it came to be during past international power battles. Nonetheless, there have been substantial changes to the global geopolitical environment, including the development of new powerful organizations, economic interdependence, and technological breakthroughs.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Middle East
  topic: keywords
subject: Politics
  topic: keywords
subject: Geographic Location
  topic: keywords
subject: Economy
  topic: keywords
subject: Security
  topic: keywords
creator: Sundas Maqbool
creator: Abu ul Hassan Muhammad Taha
creator: Sidra Siddique
creator: Muhammad Faisal
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sundas Maqbool, Abu ul Hassan Muhammad Taha, Sidra Siddique, Muhammad Faisal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1281
ending page: 1293
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2292

An Eco linguistic Investigation on UN’s 17 SDGs: Measuring the Attitude, General Awareness and Opinions of EFL Teachers
type: item
description: The research under the umbrella of Eco linguistics aims to measure the attitude, opinion and general Eco linguistic awareness of EFL teachers for achieving UN’s 17 sustainable development goals through English language teaching in the different cities of Punjab province of Pakistan. For this purpose, survey questionnaire was circulated among the sample population selected in the combination of convenient and snowball sampling methods. The results show that the EFL teachers’ community strongly align linguistically with sustainable and justice-oriented actions. The data reveals mostly eco-beneficial opinion among EFL teachers regarding SDG integration while scientific Eco linguistic terms are dangerously under-recognized and reveal potential Eco-destructive discourse silences in teaching and learning. Eco- beneficial environmental dimension needs to be highlighted in the minds of English teachers through enhancing general Eco linguistic awareness, adding ecolinguistic vocabulary, renewing the stories in the text books taught at grade 9th and 10th in the schools of Punjab. Concluding, these efforts will enhance the frequency of actions to improve the attitude of EFL teachers and their students towards sustainable habit formation and eco consciousness. English teachers are the exponents of latest trends adopters and change makers; they can contribute a lot for achieving the 2030 agenda they should be trained and facilities should be provided them by bringing Eco linguistically updated books, flexible class schedule and teaching methods.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Eco linguistics
  topic: keywords
subject: EFL teaching
  topic: keywords
subject: Sustainability
  topic: keywords
creator: Ayesha Hafeez
creator: Muhammad Asad Habib
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Ayesha Hafeez, Muhammad Asad Habib (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-03-14
publication date: 2025-03-14
starting page: 1377
ending page: 1392
doi: 10.63056/academia.4.1.2025.2291

Countering Cyber-Enabled Transnational Organized Crime in Pakistan: A Doctrinal Analysis of Gaps Between PECA 2016 and the UNTOC Framework and Pathways for Legal Harmonization
type: item
description: The rapid expansion of digital technologies has significantly increased the prevalence of cyber-enabled transnational organized crime, presenting complex legal and enforcement challenges for Pakistan. While the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA), 2016 establishes the primary domestic legal framework for combating cybercrime, its provisions reveal notable limitations in addressing sophisticated forms of transnational organized criminal activities envisioned under the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC). This article adopts a qualitative doctrinal research methodology to critically examine the extent of convergence and divergence between PECA 2016 and the UNTOC framework. Through an analysis of statutory provisions, international legal instruments, judicial interpretations, and relevant scholarly literature, the study identifies deficiencies relating to cross-border investigations, mutual legal assistance, extradition mechanisms, organized criminal group liability, digital evidence sharing, and international institutional cooperation. The article further evaluates Pakistan's existing legal and policy responses against internationally recognized standards and proposes legislative and institutional reforms aimed at harmonizing domestic cybercrime legislation with UNTOC obligations. It concludes that comprehensive legal harmonization, strengthened international cooperation, and enhanced institutional capacity are essential for effectively countering cyber-enabled transnational organized crime and ensuring Pakistan's compliance with evolving global legal norms.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cyber-Enabled Transnational Organized Crime
  topic: keywords
subject: Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act 2016 (PECA)
  topic: keywords
subject: United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC)
  topic: keywords
subject: Legal Harmonization
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Bilal Jamil
creator: Hussnain Raza
creator: Amna Imdad
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Bilal Jamil, Hussnain Raza, Amna Imdad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1269
ending page: 1280
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2290

Training Artificial Intelligence on Copyrighted Works in Pakistan: A Doctrinal Analysis and Proposal for a Comprehensive Legal and Policy Framework
type: item
description: The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) has transformed the creation, dissemination, and utilization of copyrighted works, giving rise to complex legal challenges concerning the use of protected content for AI training. In Pakistan, the Copyright Ordinance, 1962 does not expressly regulate the extraction and use of copyrighted materials for machine learning purposes, resulting in significant legal uncertainty for copyright owners, AI developers, and policymakers. This study employs a qualitative doctrinal research methodology by critically examining Pakistan's copyright framework, relevant international copyright instruments, comparative legal developments, and emerging judicial and policy approaches from selected jurisdictions. The research analyzes the compatibility of existing copyright principles with AI training practices, evaluates the adequacy of available exceptions and limitations, and identifies the legal and policy gaps that hinder innovation while compromising the protection of authors' rights. Based on this analysis, the study proposes a comprehensive legal and policy framework tailored to Pakistan that seeks to balance technological innovation, public interest, and effective copyright protection. The proposed framework aims to provide legal certainty, promote responsible AI development, and align Pakistan's copyright regime with evolving international standards in the digital era.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: Copyright Law
  topic: keywords
subject: AI Training
  topic: keywords
subject: Copyrighted Works
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Bilal Jamil
creator: Amna Imdad
creator: Ali Haider
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Bilal Jamil, Amna Imdad, Ali Haider (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1259
ending page: 1268
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2288

Identity Development Among Secondary School Students in Tehsil Sargodha Schools
type: item
description: Identity development is a critical component of adolescent human development, characterized by ongoing processes of exploration and commitment that impact upon one's sense of identity in the educational and social environments. In the present study, an effort was made to investigate the identity development of secondary school students in Tehsil Sargodha, Pakistan. It also examined gender, grade level, and school type differences as well as the identity exploration to identity commitment continuum. A cross-sectional survey with quantitative approach was used. A standardized identity development scale was used to gather data from 295 secondary school students on the dimensions of exploration and commitment. Descriptive statistics, independent samples t-tests, Pearson correlation and simple linear regression analysis were used as statistical techniques. Results revealed that the level of students' identity development was moderate. There was a significant difference between the genders and between the different grades, but not among school types. There was a significant positive correlation between identity exploration and identity commitment. The analysis showed that identity exploration was a significant predictor of identity commitment for adolescents in regression analysis. The difference between institutions mainly influences identity development among adolescents indirectly, through their internal developmental processes. The process of exploration is important for enhancing commitment to the sense of identity in the school context.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Identity development
  topic: keywords
subject: adolescence
  topic: keywords
subject: secondary school students
  topic: keywords
subject: exploration
  topic: keywords
subject: commitment
  topic: keywords
subject: school environment
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: quantitative study
  topic: keywords
creator: Rizwan Abbas Nasimi
creator: Dr. Nargis Abbas
creator: Tabassum Yasmin
creator: Muhammad Imran
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Rizwan Abbas Nasimi, Dr. Nargis Abbas, Tabassum Yasmin, Muhammad Imran (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1243
ending page: 1257
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2287

Beyond the Traditional Landscape: Postmodern Transformations of Family Institution in Contemporary Pakistan
type: item
description: This study was planned to explore changing family patterns and structures in contemporary Pakistani society. Conducted in selected locales of Lahore city, the study investigates how modernity, urbanization, socio-economic considerations, and technological advancement has reshaped family relationships, social expectations, gender role and overall family organization in the country. Data were collected from a sample of 23 purposively selected participants through Semi Structured Interviews (SSIs) to explore the lived experiences of the study participants regarding evolving family dynamics. The collected data was recorded in the form of field notes and thematic analysis were subsequently performed. The findings suggest a gradual social transition of family institution as the collectivistic family patterns are evolving toward more individualized family forms, affected by urban living conditions, economic pressures, educational expansion, and increasing preferences for personal choices, autonomy and privacy. The study further highlights another important shift in the traditional gender role as women’s educational and employment opportunities increase, while traditional expectations continue to shape family interactions.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Family
  topic: keywords
subject: Society
  topic: keywords
subject: Urbanization
  topic: keywords
subject: Gender
  topic: keywords
subject: Values
  topic: keywords
subject: Relationships
  topic: keywords
creator: Amna Iftikhar
creator: Khalil Ur Rehman
creator: Asifa Irum
creator: Muneeba Shamas
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Amna Iftikhar, Khalil Ur Rehman, Asifa Irum, Umar Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-02-27
publication date: 2026-02-27
starting page: 475
ending page: 484
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.2.2026.2286

Childhood Parental Rejection and Adulthood Depression: Evidence from Gilgit, Pakistan
type: item
description: This study examined the relationship between childhood parental rejection and depression in adulthood among residents of Gilgit. A convenience sample of 500 participants (251 men and 249 women), aged 18 to 70 years, was drawn from Danyore, Sawakr, Nomal, and central Gilgit. Childhood parental rejection was measured using the Parental Acceptance-Rejection Questionnaire for both father and mother (PARQ; Rohner, 2005), and adulthood depression was measured using the depression subscale of the Mental Health Inventory (MHI-38). Data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and an independent samples t-test using SPSS version 22.0. Results showed that both paternal and maternal childhood rejection were significantly and positively correlated with adulthood depression, meaning depression scores rose as recalled parental rejection increased. Paternal and maternal rejection scores were themselves strongly correlated with one another. The independent samples t-test comparing men and women on depression did not reach the conventional threshold for statistical significance, and participants of both genders were treated as reporting broadly similar levels of depression. These findings support the interpersonal acceptance-rejection framework's claim that a lack of parental warmth in childhood carries into adult psychological functioning. The study contributes early evidence on this relationship from Gilgit-Baltistan, a region where such research has previously been scarce, and points to accepting parenting practices as a factor worth attention in this setting.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Parenting
  topic: keywords
subject: Childhood rejection
  topic: keywords
subject: Adulthood depression
  topic: keywords
creator: Syeda Arifa Batool
creator: Syeda Anita Zehra
creator: Muhammad Taqi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Syeda Arifa Batool, Syeda Anita Zehra, Muhammad Taqi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1233
ending page: 1241
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2285

Drug Abuse and Youth Crime in Pakistan: An Empirical Investigation of the Relationship Between Substance Addiction and Juvenile Delinquency
type: item
description: Drug abuse has emerged as one of the most serious public health and social challenges worldwide, with profound implications for crime, public safety, and youth development. In Pakistan, the increasing prevalence of substance addiction among adolescents and young adults has raised concerns regarding its relationship with juvenile delinquency and criminal behavior. Although drug use and crime are closely associated, the relationship is complex and cannot be explained solely by the need to finance drug consumption. Existing research suggests that socioeconomic deprivation, family dysfunction, peer influence, psychological disorders, unemployment, and limited access to education interact with substance abuse to increase the likelihood of juvenile offending. This study critically examines the relationship between drug addiction and youth crime in Pakistan by reviewing empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives on substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. It evaluates how drug dependence contributes to various forms of criminal behavior, including theft, robbery, violence, drug trafficking, and other offenses committed by juveniles. The paper further explores the role of Pakistan's criminal justice system, rehabilitation services, and drug treatment programs in addressing substance-related offending. The findings indicate that punitive criminal justice responses alone are insufficient to reduce drug-related crime. Instead, comprehensive prevention strategies, accessible treatment facilities, community-based rehabilitation programs, family support services, educational interventions, and evidence-based public policies are essential for reducing both substance abuse and juvenile delinquency. The study concludes that strengthening rehabilitation and reintegration mechanisms, rather than relying primarily on punishment, can significantly improve youth outcomes, reduce recidivism, and enhance public safety in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Drug abuse
  topic: keywords
subject: substance addiction
  topic: keywords
subject: juvenile delinquency
  topic: keywords
subject: youth crime
  topic: keywords
subject: rehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: criminal justice system
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: substance use disorder
  topic: keywords
subject: crime prevention
  topic: keywords
subject: public health
  topic: keywords
creator: Dr. M. Qadeer
creator: Hafiz Ali Haider
creator: Maaz Ali Junaid
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. M. Qadeer, Hafiz Ali Haider, Maaz Ali Junaid (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1169
ending page: 1208
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2282

Experiencing the Digital Attention Crisis in Adolescence: A Descriptive Phenomenological Study of Teachers’ and Parents’ Perspectives in Karachi
type: item
description: The explosion of digitally mediated spaces has dramatically transformed the attentional capabilities, learning methods, and emotional regulation of adolescents. An extensive array of studies has investigated the cognitive and behavioral impacts of digital media consumption; however, this literature has been predominately quantitative in nature, outcome-focused, and conducted in the Western context, with no insight into how the people closest to adolescents – teachers and parents – perceive, understand, and deal with attentional disruptions in everyday practice. The need for such knowledge is particularly pertinent in Karachi, Pakistan, where previous research on adolescent digital media consumption has been conducted using solely cross-sectional surveys considering attention as a constant background factor. This research adopted a descriptive phenomenology design based on the philosophy of Husserl (1931) and methodology of Giorgi (2009) to address this gap by interviewing six participants in Karachi, i.e., three matched pairs of parent-teachers, each set discussing one same adolescent (Student 1: mother and a male teacher; Student 2: father and a female teacher; Student 3: tech-savvy mother and a senior academic), using semi-structured in-depth interviews of 35 to 60 minutes. Data analysis was done using the Giorgi's six step descriptive phenomenological method (holistic reading, bracketing, identification of meaning units, eidetic transformation, thematic clustering and synthesis) using the lens of Attention Economy Theory, Cognitive Load Theory and Ecological Systems Theory. The analysis resulted in four main themes: attentional saturation and cognitive fatigue, attention devoted to entertainment and disengagement from classroom discussion, mediation challenges within the family and school systems and slow but steady changes in emotional and mental health. It conceptualizes adolescent digital attention disorder as a relational and culturally contingent phenomenon …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: digital attention crisis
  topic: keywords
subject: descriptive phenomenology
  topic: keywords
subject: adolescence
  topic: keywords
subject: Karachi
  topic: keywords
subject: teacher–parent perspectives
  topic: keywords
subject: parental mediation
  topic: keywords
subject: cognitive load theory
  topic: keywords
subject: attention economy theory
  topic: keywords
subject: ecological systems theory
  topic: keywords
subject: mesosystem
  topic: keywords
creator: Sarah Rafiq
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sarah Rafiq (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1127
ending page: 1168
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2281

Digital Violence against Women in Pakistan: Bridging CEDAW Obligations and PECA Act
type: item
description: Digital technologies and social media platforms have transformed communication in Pakistan, but they have also created new spaces for violence against women. Online harassment, cyberstalking, non-consensual sharing of images, blackmail, hate speech, and technology-facilitated abuse increasingly threaten women’s dignity, privacy, freedom of expression, and participation in public life. This research critically examines digital violence against women through the framework of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and evaluates the adequacy of Pakistan’s legal and institutional responses. The study adopts a qualitative and doctrinal legal research methodology by analyzing constitutional provisions, statutory laws, judicial decisions, international human rights instruments, and policy frameworks related to cybercrime and women’s protection. Particular attention is given to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act, 2016 (PECA), and its effectiveness in addressing gender-based digital violence. The research argues that existing legal mechanisms remain fragmented, enforcement remains weak, and social stigma discourages victims from seeking remedies. It further highlights the need to expand the interpretation and implementation of CEDAW obligations to effectively recognize and combat digital forms of gender-based violence in Pakistan. The study concludes by proposing legal reforms, stronger enforcement mechanisms, and gender-sensitive digital policies to ensure safer online spaces for women.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Digital Violence
  topic: keywords
subject: Women’s Rights
  topic: keywords
subject: CEDAW
  topic: keywords
subject: Cyber Harassment
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Dr. Nadia Zafar
creator: Hammad Malik
creator: Ayesha Mukhtar
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. Nadia Zafar, Hammad Malik, Ayesha Mukhtar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1117
ending page: 1126
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2280

Impact of Sitting Habits and Study Posture on Musculoskeletal Health among University Student: A Cross Sectional Study
type: item
description: Background: University students spend prolonged hours sitting for study and digital activities, often with poor posture. This leads to spinal strain, musculoskeletal discomfort, and potential negative effects on academic performance and well-being. However, limited research specifically examines how sitting habits impact students’ musculoskeletal health, highlighting the need for further investigation. Objective: To assess the impact of sitting habits and study posture on musculoskeletal health among university students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 233 students selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and a structured proforma on sitting time and ergonomic practices. Statistical analysis included descriptive methods, the chi square test, and linear regression modelling using SPSS version 29. Result: Most participants were young females with similar demographics. Mild musculoskeletal pain and minimal-to-moderate disability were most common, and 91% showed postural deviations. Strong positive correlations (r = 0.753–0.858, p < 0.05) were found between pain, disability, and posture. Clinical variables showed significant associations, while demographic factors had limited influence. Reliability was acceptable (α = 0.81), and non-parametric tests were appropriate. Conclusion: Musculoskeletal pain, back pain disability, and postural dysfunction are strongly interconnected in university students. Poor posture and prolonged sitting are key contributing factors, while demographics play a minimal role. These findings emphasize the importance of ergonomic awareness and preventive strategies in academic settings.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Repetitive strain injury
  topic: keywords
subject: posture equilibrium
  topic: keywords
subject: overuse syndrome
  topic: keywords
creator: Shehzaf Zafar
creator: Paras Ayaz
creator: Okasha Anjum
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Shehzaf Zafar, Paras Ayaz, Okasha Anjum (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1107
ending page: 1116
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2279

Seignorage: Past and Modern Exploitation
type: item
description: This research will evaluate how countries struggling with common economic factors can rely on seignorage to boost their economies during a financial crisis or progress to become an emerging economy in a short period of time- the common factors faced by EU countries in the pre – Delor’s era that pushed them to resort to seignorage. We will then scrutinize the quandary caused and control tools used to curtail the predicaments caused by seignorage such as hyperinflation and currency devaluation. Furthermore, we will explore the benefits that can be created from effective utilization of seignorage such as ease of low-cost liquidity, healthy inflation, growth in GDP, employment, innovation, infrastructure and improved credibility of the local currency in the international foreign exchange market. In the end, we will explore how seignorage is a seraphic or atrocious tool for income generation for the local government in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: seignorage
  topic: keywords
subject: hyperinflation
  topic: keywords
subject: innovation
  topic: keywords
subject: economic revival
  topic: keywords
creator: Amera Kiran Iqbal
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Amera Kiran Iqbal (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1093
ending page: 1106
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2277

Evidence of Drug Abuse, Poverty, and Peer Pressure as Factors Affecting Juvenile Illegal Comportment in Pakistan
type: item
description: Juvenile delinquency has become a growing social and security concern in Pakistan, where increasing levels of youth crime are associated with multiple social, economic, and psychological factors. While substance abuse is widely recognized as an important contributor to criminal behavior among young people, the relationship between drug addiction and juvenile offending is influenced by broader structural conditions, including family instability, peer networks, poverty, unemployment, and educational exclusion. This study investigates the socioeconomic and psychological determinants of juvenile delinquency in Pakistan, with particular emphasis on the role of substance abuse and social environment. The research explores how drug dependency, family relationships, peer influence, and socioeconomic challenges contribute to youth involvement in criminal activities. Using empirical evidence and theoretical perspectives from criminology, sociology, and psychology, the study analyzes patterns of offending among young individuals and examines the effectiveness of existing prevention and rehabilitation mechanisms in Pakistan. The findings suggest that juvenile crime cannot be addressed through punitive measures alone. Effective reduction of youth offending requires integrated strategies combining drug prevention, family counseling, educational opportunities, mental health support, vocational training, and community-based rehabilitation. The study recommends a shift from punishment-oriented approaches toward preventive and rehabilitative policies to reduce youth crime and promote social reintegration in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Juvenile delinquency
  topic: keywords
subject: Youth crime
  topic: keywords
subject: substance abuse
  topic: keywords
subject: peer influence
  topic: keywords
subject: family environment
  topic: keywords
subject: socioeconomic factors
  topic: keywords
subject: rehabilitation
  topic: keywords
subject: criminology
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Dr. M. Qadeer
creator: Sharafat Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Dr. M. Qadeer, Sharafat Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1067
ending page: 1092
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2276

Exploring the Readiness and Anticipated Impact of Teacher Licensing Systems on Teacher Performance in Pakistan: Evidence from Structural Equation Modelling
type: item
description: Teacher licensing has emerged as a widely discussed reform mechanism for strengthening educational quality and professional accountability, yet whether such systems actually change what happens in classrooms depends heavily on institutional readiness, managerial support, and the way teachers themselves perceive the reform. Building directly on the instrument that we designed and validated in our companion methodological paper (Kamal & Saadi, 2025), this study examined the structural relationships among the Teacher Licensing System (TLS), the Role of Management, Potential Challenges, Suggestions for Implementation, and Teacher Performance among secondary-level teachers in Punjab, Pakistan. A structured questionnaire, grounded in that validated instrument, was administered to a stratified random sample of secondary school teachers (N = 770) across rural and urban tehsils of Punjab. Data were analysed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) in SmartPLS 4, following a two-stage measurement-then-structural model evaluation. All constructs demonstrated strong reliability and convergent validity (Cronbach's alpha and composite reliability > 0.85; AVE = 0.51-0.79), and discriminant validity was confirmed via the Fornell-Larcker criterion. The structural model showed that the Teacher Licensing System (β = 0.494, p < .001) and the Role of Management (β = 0.346, p < .001) were the strongest positive predictors of teachers' Key Performance Indicators, while additional non-teaching responsibilities eroded the benefit of licensing (β = -0.374, p < .001). Potential Challenges showed a small but significant positive association with performance, a pattern more consistent with a challenge-stressor interpretation than with a simple hindrance effect. The model explained 64.2% of the variance in teacher performance (R² = 0.642), with satisfactory predictive relevance (Q² > 0). We conclude that the success of teacher licensing in Pakistan is unlikely to rest …
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Teacher Licensing System (TLS)
  topic: keywords
subject: Teacher Performance
  topic: keywords
subject: Educational Management
  topic: keywords
subject: Structural Equation Modelling (SEM)
  topic: keywords
subject: PLS-SEM
  topic: keywords
subject: Professional Development
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Policy Reform
  topic: keywords
subject: Teacher Accountability
  topic: keywords
creator: Bushra Mustafa Kamal
creator: Dr. Azhar Mumtaz Saadi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Bushra Mustafa Kamal, Dr. Azhar Mumtaz Saadi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2025-12-21
publication date: 2025-12-21
starting page: 1461
ending page: 1481
doi: 10.63056/academia.4.4(b).2025.2275

Effect of Social Media and Belief in Fake News on Political Polarization
type: item
description: The research has studied the effect of social media and belief in fake news on political polarization. The data were collected via questionnaire from the 396 respondents by using multi stage sampling. For the purpose of the analysis, the linear regression was applied. The statistical analysis has also showed that exposure to social media and belief in fake news have effect on political polarization. The study has recommended to the policy makers and all stakeholders to take steps to set up more fact-check mechanism and awareness among the people to minimize the negative effects of exposure to social media and fake news on political polarization to reduce its negatives influence in the society.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Social Media
  topic: keywords
subject: Belief in Fake News
  topic: keywords
subject: Political Polarization
  topic: keywords
subject: Democracy
  topic: keywords
creator: Faisal Shahzad
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Faisal Shahzad (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1057
ending page: 1065
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2274

The Impact of Dividend Policy on Stock Price Volatility: Evidence from the Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sectors of Pakistan
type: item
description: This study examines how dividend rules affect Pakistan's competitive chemical and pharmaceutical companies' share prices. In this market, investors worry about market value and economic uncertainty is rampant. This study employs Fixed Effect and Random Effect models to examine how dividend policy affected ten KSE-100 Index companies' stock prices from 2020 to 2024. It measures dividend policy impact. To study how cash and stock dividends affect market price per share, market price, earnings per share, return on equity, and retention ratio will be utilised as controls. This study evaluates cash and equity dividends on share prices. The study indicated that dividend policy strongly affects stock price volatility for chosen companies.Cash dividends, stock dividends, and EPS minimise inventory price volatility, according to data. Retained earnings and return on equity increase stock price volatility. Investors value dividends in riskier emerging economies. Dividend investors can make informed decisions. Using the study's findings, companies can design a high-quality dividend policy that decreases share price volatility and increases shareholder value. Conclusions from the study will allow this. Its empirical evidence from emerging capital markets challenges the Dividend Relevance Theory, making it important. The study reveals that retention ratios affect stock values.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Cash Dividend
  topic: keywords
subject: Stock Dividend
  topic: keywords
subject: Stock Price Volatility
  topic: keywords
subject: Fixed Effect Model
  topic: keywords
subject: Dividend Relevance Theory
  topic: keywords
creator: Owais Ahmed Bhatti
creator: Dr. Muhammad Muzammil
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Owais Ahmed Bhatti, Dr. Muhammad Muzammil (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1041
ending page: 1055
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2273

Designing Therapeutic Interior Environments for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Pakistan: An Evidence-Based Approach
type: item
description: Autism Spectrum Disorder is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by challenges in communication, social interaction, and sensory processing <a href="https://dummy-citation.com/citation?d=z%3A7VlNbCRHFfYuuwEhIZREoCQSUYegDUH2eP48tldIu7O2N3bsHTseO4sgQqnpqu4uu7qr0z%2F2zHJgE5QDB478SuFPgjMSB7SckHIHIQ45EqIoAgmEhAiXFRLfq%2BoZz4xnhDa2BIcckp2Zrnr16nvfe%2B977dfuzTzku0EeHW7w7ucq3Ku6Dc%2Bbq7DK8lxdVMUcW6jwuXql45U7XCy7tQVfaZdlOrk3c%2BEgZr5o5WFHJH6lXK826g1PJ9KX0aUw5t669AOF%2F7IUa6XZJnWUfu%2BJezMXeaeju%2FdmLnmBoBX3r73%2F1ht3Z2ZmuBJedv%2F605%2F%2BhYNvbqbj%2B9fXflanL%2BJY8iy4f31l8%2Bsv4%2BvQ4Zcf0OBNd5UenZ%2FB557ae3vI4NJXowc3%2BMxv3%2F7xicE%2FiutDBm98JqDDzuDh%2Bhv52JXJ4TMY3PjK68NXhkHy%2FgwGn3%2F8OwTakMHfnNHgWz8nl84vypvf%2FuUYD8%2Fo4Vb7zfO98q2H%2F0AWHjgoPyE3Jhr83bv4fI4etr71zzEenpE221uXPtCVpxrcufzxMdqc1SB%2FZCxTzojhzpuPn289fOGzT50vsV949dnh8gWD9PUsBt%2BujAXljOVr99ryGG3O6OHuD5vnG%2BXdfz8%2FnHpXP3X7jD2l%2FdLucFCar%2F%2BJ7P8Xg9cf3rxGJgqDV176wYmHe867w%2BXrxp3LZzS4%2F8X3hqM8waB4JdeZ6D30q71Apo7LUuGkWc57Dr7FiQxZIlXPYTIU3GGZI8M40Ucy8p0sEM4rOVMy6znac5T0BP3rBlLxRETOscwCp9lexcJE537gsATPMuFmecKUw9IYH1PaQpZkxLVOnE4uVeaI6EgmOgpFlJWcPTyNE5HiS%2BGZ6LJQRiI1G%2FF7qhO4G8bMzawnQMVhEXdcrWBTRvjSP2DItKPxIM9kmkl3yO1AEwSwigNYIhxfRAIOA4RQ46sFHb9xHA%2B7eQoMrJcySo02I8N9tzKIN18kqeMzuMwdL9EhNgJcexcXJvxccuFwgd04CqeS60pG0pUsSuGRVP3HBLySBv8U9yUXsThjh%2BaXTMQARTuJ4LlLcZRhriT5mTkh6zlKMCzWTkcE7EhqCoMnGOIh0pKzH3EcnsEe2aLAwUkuPU%2B6OWLCc0FbI5EnQNWXLsWwE%2BkktBQgPxgQD2MlukMnADcuPHN3Lo6E0rHBnkvAgwMtTeBmJrER%2ByMg1kFU4IOHgOoErt2mNZYlbiJYSg9BiSOmRIR7IuYmjqFzrBPFwXUxa5ZHghBH1MFZH5dM5ZEYo6GFFVDBf5bwdNZGA%2BgX2HZEmmE%2FXJEENyCwKQA0cMIpvs6CnbFC5DJcHO7qJAYK5jp9StC%2FMkMQgVqa4aHwJSyDpjLKRALU%2BrE1gYPGB0w4d8DVBDkrE0HHwV9EqSPI%2FqEQEQ71hLJZA7LiGe5tDCTC1eAPzQsGEnvxd%2B5%2BHyfb1IEDJrdN%2FJmTag2e4mNP0A19hiHEH8kfMjOa7pTTEqgS8IibTV2qISgRnQNgTgGAU7hNGlByEYZeDujJINHRhtySlNiQIhig82gSG3gs87E%2F01oVeSDcIJKv5CfQRWSGi1jpHiWsRj4ipeB46Ei6McGKZSqcddI8RqjIw1lLZkOpOS%2BRIuLA9Y6OLK0S0ekBzlQrm4dgtSlonMXF%2FVLygNA5VV6mYDIog6OFjhBiZEkpfZxedd6…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Autism Spectrum Disorder
  topic: keywords
subject: Therapeutic Interior Design
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
subject: Sensory Sensitivity
  topic: keywords
subject: Evidence-Based Design
  topic: keywords
creator: Saima Shahzad
creator: Syeda Sani-e-Zahra Naqvi
creator: Saima Ashraf
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Saima Shahzad, Syeda Sani-e-Zahra Naqvi, Saima Ashraf (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 1003
ending page: 1039
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2268

Psychological Impact of Medical Education: Stress, Anxiety, Burnout, and the Mediating Role of Coping Mechanisms Among Medical Students
type: item
description: Medical education is widely recognized as one of the most psychologically demanding academic fields, exposing students to heavy workloads, frequent examinations, and clinical responsibilities. This study examined the relationships among stress, anxiety, burnout, and coping mechanisms among undergraduate medical students, and tested coping mechanisms as a mediator of the stress–anxiety relationship. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was administered to 300 undergraduate medical students (46.0% male, 54.0% female) across academic years at medical colleges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, recruited via purposive sampling. Stress and anxiety were assessed with the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21, burnout with the Maslach Burnout Inventory, and coping mechanisms with the Brief COPE Scale. Stress was significantly positively correlated with anxiety (r = .49, p < .001) and burnout (r = .48, p < .001), and significantly positively correlated with coping mechanisms (r = .33, p < .001), while coping mechanisms were significantly negatively correlated with anxiety (r = –.18, p = .002). Regression analysis showed stress significantly predicted anxiety (β = .49, R² = .24, p < .001) and burnout (β = .48, R² = .23, p < .001). Mediation analysis (Hayes' PROCESS Model 4) confirmed that coping mechanisms partially mediated the relationship between stress and anxiety (indirect effect B = –0.11, 95% CI [–0.17, –0.07]), with a significant direct effect remaining (B = 0.57, p < .001). Findings underscore the considerable psychological burden of medical education and support the integration of early mental health screening, stress management programs, coping-skills training, and institutional counseling services in medical colleges.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: medical education
  topic: keywords
subject: stress
  topic: keywords
subject: anxiety
  topic: keywords
subject: burnout
  topic: keywords
subject: coping mechanisms
  topic: keywords
subject: medical students
  topic: keywords
subject: psychological distress
  topic: keywords
creator: Sara Khan
creator: Umar Hussain
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sara Khan, Umar Hussain (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 995
ending page: 1001
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2267

Exposure to AI-Generated Content, Body Image, and Self-Esteem Among Social Media Users: The Mediating Role of Body Image
type: item
description: The rapid proliferation of AI-generated images, AI beauty filters, virtual influencers, and digitally synthesized appearance content on social media has raised concern about its psychological impact on users. This study examined the relationships among exposure to AI-generated content (AIGC), body image, and self-esteem, and tested whether body image mediated the AIGC–self-esteem relationship. A quantitative, cross-sectional, correlational design was employed with 300 social media users aged 18–30 (56.7% female), recruited via convenience sampling. AIGC exposure was measured with a self-developed scale, body image with the Body Image States Scale, and self-esteem with the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Cronbach's alpha, Pearson correlation, multiple regression, and mediation analysis. AIGC exposure was significantly negatively correlated with self-esteem (r = –.46, p < .01) and body image (r = –.52, p < .01), while body image was significantly positively correlated with self-esteem (r = .58, p < .01). Regression analyses showed AIGC exposure explained 21.2% of the variance in self-esteem and 27.0% of the variance in body image, while body image explained 33.6% of the variance in self-esteem. Mediation analysis confirmed that body image partially mediated the relationship between AIGC exposure and self-esteem (indirect effect B = –0.214, 95% CI [–0.289, –0.146]), with a significant direct effect remaining (B = –0.205, p < .001). Findings indicate that AI-generated appearance content undermines self-esteem both directly and indirectly through diminished body satisfaction, underscoring the need for digital literacy initiatives, AI-content transparency, and body image-focused psychological interventions.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: AI-generated content
  topic: keywords
subject: body image
  topic: keywords
subject: self-esteem
  topic: keywords
subject: social media
  topic: keywords
subject: AI beauty filters
  topic: keywords
subject: virtual influencers
  topic: keywords
subject: social comparison
  topic: keywords
subject: mediation
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdullah Shafqat
creator: Muqaddas Anwar
creator: Shoukat Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Abdullah Shafqat, Muqaddas Anwar, Shoukat Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 987
ending page: 994
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2265

Environmental Refugees in International Law: A Critical Assessment of Legal Status and Protection Deficits
type: item
description: This study examines the emerging significance of climate change in relation to human displacement around the various corners of the world. The Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, 1951, and its 1967 Protocol, do not explicitly define, protect, or provide any mechanisms for individuals displaced solely by environmental factors. This study examines the legal status of environmental refugees and their exclusion from the existing international legal framework and examine state responsibility. The study employs doctrinal methodology. It argues that the present international refugee law is inadequate to recognize and protect environmental refugees. The study concludes with an emphasis on the international cooperation, creation of internationally recognized international framework, and the clarification on role of states through international practice.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Environmental refugees
  topic: keywords
subject: International refugee law
  topic: keywords
subject: Environmental migration
  topic: keywords
subject: Human displacement
  topic: keywords
creator: Abdul Rauf Khaskheli
creator: Aneel Meghani
creator: Fawad Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Abdul Rauf Khaskheli, Aneel Meghani, Fawad Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 977
ending page: 986
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2264

Digital Identity Construction of LinkedIn Users: An Analytical Study of Discursive Practices
type: item
description: Digital identity construction on LinkedIn has appeared as an important area of investigation, mainly in relation to how individuals create and present themselves on social media platforms for professional networking. As an internationally acclaimed platform, the function of LinkedIn is not only limited to its role as a best tool for job seeking and recruiting but also as a discursive space where individuals consciously shape and negotiate their professional personas. These discursive practices understood through the frameworks of scholars such as Norman Fairclough and Ruth Wodak offer insight into the complex interplay between language, society, and power in digital contexts. This study investigates the concept of "digital identity" with a particular focus on how Goffman’s (1959) theories of impression management, front stage, and backstage behavior manifest in online self-presentation. Particularly, it focuses on how users employ LinkedIn to construct their professional identities, and to what extent these digitally mediated identities bring into line with, or diverge from, their offline identities.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Digital Identity
  topic: keywords
subject: LinkedIn
  topic: keywords
subject: Discursive Practices
  topic: keywords
creator: Umama Mubarak
creator: Dr. Muntazar Mehdi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Umama Mubarak, Dr. Muntazar Mehdi (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 959
ending page: 975
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2263

Evaluating the role of Poly-Victimization and Perceived Social Support in Suicidal Ideation Among University Students in Lahore, Pakistan
type: item
description: The issue of suicidal ideation and self-harm behavior among university students has become a public health problem in Pakistan. The present study focused on the relationship among experiences of poly-victimization, perceived social support and suicidal ideation among University students in Lahore. The design for this survey was quantitative, cross-sectional, and the tools used to collect the data included standardized instruments that assessed the victimization experiences, perceived social support, and suicidal ideation. The results showed that perceived social support was negatively associated with suicidal ideation while poly-victimization was positively associated with suicidal ideation. Additionally, regression analysis showed that both victimization experiences and perceived social support were significant predictors of suicidal ideation, suggesting that victimization was a risk factor and that social support was a protective factor. Overall, there was little evidence of gender differences in the study variables, but some differences were found with specific types of victimization. The results support the Stress-Buffering Hypothesis, the General Strain Theory, and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, highlighting the need to focus on victimization experiences to prevent internalization of suicidal thoughts and increase social support networks to buffer the impact of victimization experiences on the development of suicidal ideation among university students. Overall, the study sheds light on the importance of implementing mental health programs in universities, providing trauma-informed support services, and promoting mental health education and prevention strategies to create a safer school environment and enhance students' mental health in Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: suicidal ideation
  topic: keywords
subject: poly-victimization
  topic: keywords
subject: perceived social support
  topic: keywords
subject: university students
  topic: keywords
subject: Lahore
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Arsha Noor
creator: Muhammad Irfan
creator: Abdullah Chaudhary
creator: Iqra Afzal
creator: Abdullah Sardar
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Arsha Noor, Muhammad Irfan, Abdullah Chaudhary, Iqra Afzal, Abdullah Sardar (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 945
ending page: 958
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2262

Prevalence and Association of Upper Limb Musculoskeletal Problems and Low Back Pain with Prolonged Sketching Among Architecture Students: A Cross-Sectional Study
type: item
description: Background: Architecture students engage in prolonged sketching that requires sustained bending, repetitive upper-limb movement, and static postures. Although international literature links prolonged drafting to musculoskeletal disorders, data on architecture students in Pakistan, particularly Karachi, remain scarce. Objective: To determine the prevalence of upper limb musculoskeletal problems and low back pain (LBP) among architecture students and to examine their association with prolonged sketching. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 169 undergraduate architecture students recruited via non-probability convenience sampling from institutions across Karachi. Data were collected using the Extended Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) over six months. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and chi-square tests were used for analysis (SPSS v29; p<0.05). Results: Upper limb musculoskeletal problems were reported by 93.5% of participants, and 68.64% reported LBP. Among students with LBP, 95.7% also had upper limb symptoms, indicating substantial symptom clustering. Sketching duration and years of experience showed no significant independent association with symptom prevalence. However, gender (χ²=5.78, p=0.02) and exercise routine (χ²=8.11, p=0.02) were significantly associated with LBP: females reported higher prevalence (74.4%) than males (55.8%), and daily exercisers reported lower prevalence (43.5%) than non-exercisers (73.8%). Conclusion: Architecture students carry a substantial, multi-site musculoskeletal burden from prolonged sketching, yet 88.8% had never sought professional consultation. Findings support incorporating ergonomic education, adjustable workstations, structured rest breaks, and exercise promotion into architecture curricula.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Musculoskeletal pain
  topic: keywords
subject: Low back pain
  topic: keywords
subject: Prevalence
  topic: keywords
subject: Architecture students
  topic: keywords
subject: Sketching
  topic: keywords
subject: Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire
  topic: keywords
creator: Shizza Khan
creator: Maira Muneer
creator: Okasha Anjum
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Shizza Khan, Maira Muneer, Okasha Anjum (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 937
ending page: 943
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2261

Problems Experienced by Undergraduate Students in Conducting Research in Online Distance Learning
type: item
description: The objective of this study was to analyze challenges faced by undergraduate students while conducting their research work in online distance learning environment. This study employed descriptive research design and was based on quantitative approach. The sample size of 400 students were selected through multistage sampling methods involving cluster and simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire was modified to obtain data which was five-point Likert scale. After the questionnaire was modified, it was pilot tested from a number of respondents in order to examine the reliability of the instrument. To condense the data, descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency, and standard deviation were used. The data were processed using the Statistics Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The result indicated a number of significant difficulties encountered by undergraduate students in distance learning environment. These were challenges with time management, motivation and availability of research resources. The students also faced challenges with understanding methodologies and getting timely supervisory support. Institutional factors like limited access to electronic libraries and poor academic support also slowed progress. In total, all these aspects had a negative effect on students` capacity to carry out effective research. According to the discovery the recommendations are institutions ought to formulate ways of increasing student motivation and participation in online learning, for instance, interactive learning and peer support groups. Digital libraries and other resources for research must be made available to support students in conducting quality research.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Online
  topic: keywords
subject: Distance learning
  topic: keywords
subject: Environment
  topic: keywords
subject: Problems
  topic: keywords
subject: Research
  topic: keywords
subject: Undergraduate
  topic: keywords
subject: Students
  topic: keywords
creator: Qurat-Ul-Ain Aamir
creator: Shehrbano Kazmi
creator: Sonia
creator: Dr. Shamim Ullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Qurat-Ul-Ain Aamir, Shehrbano Kazmi, Sonia (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 461
ending page: 470
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3(s10).2026.2260

Linking the Use of Artificial Intelligence and Undergraduate Students’ Critical Thinking Skills: The Mediating Role of Metacognitive Awareness
type: item
description: This research examined the correlation between the use of artificial intelligence (AI) and critical thinking ability among undergraduate students, with a focus on the mediating role of metacognitive consciousness. As AI grows in its presence within higher education through applications like ChatGPT, Grammarly, and intelligent tutoring systems, there has been an expressed concern regarding its impact on the cognitive development of students. Whereas AI has been valued for enhancing individualized learning and information access, its potential to enhance higher-order thinking is still under-explored. Based on self-regulated learning theory, the current research theorized that metacognitive awareness—students' capacity to monitor and control their thoughts—can be an important mechanism by which AI affects critical thinking. Under the umbrella of quantitative research, correlation research design was used. Population was undergraduate students from public and private sector universities located in Lahore, Pakistan. By using multistage sampling procedure, 400 undergraduate students were selected from universities. Data were gathered with standardized tools to assess AI utilization, metacognitive awareness, and critical thinking, all on a 5-point Likert scale with high reliability (α > .80). Pearson r showed positive correlations between AI adoption and critical thinking (r = .37, p < .01), and between AI adoption and metacognitive awareness (r = .41, p < .01), whereas mediation analysis verified that metacognitive awareness partly mediates the AI–critical thinking relationship (indirect effect β = 0.19, 95% CI [0.11, 0.27]). Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) was conducted to validate the construct structure of the study instruments, confirming that the measurement models of AI Use, Metacognitive Awareness, and Critical Thinking fit the data adequately. In addition, private school students had higher critical thinking scores compared to public school students. These find…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Artificial Intelligence
  topic: keywords
subject: Critical Thinking
  topic: keywords
subject: Metacognitive Awareness
  topic: keywords
subject: Higher Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Mediation Analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: University Students
  topic: keywords
subject: AI Use
  topic: keywords
creator: Sonia
creator: Ayesha Anjum
creator: Milhan Rao
creator: Dr. Shamim Ullah
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Sonia, Ayesha Anjum, Milhan Rao (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 907
ending page: 923
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2259

The Role of Work-Life Balance and Transformational Leadership on Job Satisfaction, Work Motivation, and Employee Productivity in Universities of Pakistan
type: item
description: This research study explores the relationship between transformational leadership and work life balance with employee productivity among academics and administrative employees in public university of Punjab in Pakistan with job satisfaction and transformational work motivation as mediators. The study fills the empirical void by validating a complete mediator model in the Pakistan higher education sector based on grounded and social exchange theory and self-determination theory. The researcher conducted the quantitative survey to 102 university Teachers in five namely Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi and Gujrat. The analysis technique used in this study was partial lease quiz structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with software Smart-PLS 4. The results of the measurement model showed sufficient reliability, convergent and discriminant validity for all constructs. A number of reviews have confirmed that there is a significant and positive relationship between finding a balance between work and life and transformational leadership and both job satisfaction and work motivation. However, of all factors job satisfaction did not exert any direct significant effect on employee productivity but only work motivation. Work motivation was identified as the main mediation construct while job satisfaction did not mediate either relationship. The study will give some guidelines to the university administration and higher education commission of Pakistan.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Work-life Balance
  topic: keywords
subject: Transformational leadership style
  topic: keywords
subject: Job satisfaction
  topic: keywords
subject: Work motivation
  topic: keywords
subject: Employee Productivity
  topic: keywords
creator: Hira Mudassar
creator: Meerab Saleem
creator: Hafiz Gohar Mehmood Khan
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Hira Mudassar, Meerab Saleem, Hafiz Gohar Mehmood Khan (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 887
ending page: 906
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2258

Reconceptualizing "Force Majeure" and "Change in Law" in the Era of Climate Adaptation
type: item
description: Climate change has fundamentally altered the risk landscape of infrastructure and commercial contracts, challenging the traditional interpretation of force majeure and change in law clauses. Increasingly frequent extreme weather events, evolving climate adaptation policies, carbon regulation, and environmental compliance measures have blurred the distinction between unforeseeable natural events and foreseeable regulatory interventions. This article critically examines whether conventional contractual doctrines remain adequate to allocate climate-related risks in modern legal and commercial practice. Adopting a qualitative doctrinal research methodology based exclusively on secondary sources, including legislation, judicial decisions, scholarly literature, and international legal instruments, the study evaluates the evolving legal treatment of climate-induced disruptions and regulatory changes. It argues that existing contractual frameworks require reconceptualization to reflect the realities of climate adaptation, emphasizing greater contractual flexibility, dynamic risk allocation, and resilience-oriented drafting. The study further proposes an integrated interpretative approach that harmonizes private contractual autonomy with emerging public law obligations arising from climate governance. By redefining the boundaries between force majeure and change in law, the article contributes to the development of climate-responsive contract law capable of enhancing legal certainty, commercial stability, and long-term infrastructure resilience in an era of accelerating environmental change.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Force Majeure
  topic: keywords
subject: Change in Law
  topic: keywords
subject: Climate Adaptation
  topic: keywords
subject: Contractual Risk Allocation
  topic: keywords
subject: Climate-Responsive Contract Law
  topic: keywords
creator: Aurang Zaib Ashraf Shami
creator: Sheikh Muhammad Ali
creator: Muhammad Aftab
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Aurang Zaib Ashraf Shami, Sheikh Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Aftab (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-02-27
publication date: 2026-02-27
starting page: 457
ending page: 473
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.2.2026.2257

Categorical Blindness? Disability and the Design of Cash-Based Social Protection in Pakistan
type: item
description: The government of Pakistan has expanded the cash transfer social protection approach to a large extent in the framework of the Benazir Income Support Program and its related schemes. Its core Programs, however, are largely focused on targets of household poverty. This study compares the extent to which disability is used as a source of economic need—independence—when designing social protection to the use of disability as merely a household characteristic. The documentary and comparative policy-analysis design was used. A structured framework was used to analyse Official Program documents, eligibility criteria, evaluation reports, disability-measurement instruments, and literature on disability-related policy. Official Program documents were analysed for the provision of disability-related policy information that was relevant to the four key components of the framework: disability identification, means testing, eligibility thresholds, benefit differentiation, accessibility, and recognition of disability-related additional costs. The poverty-targeted model for Pakistan was also contrasted with the United Kingdom's Personal Independence Payment, which focuses directly on extra costs of living with disability. The results show that disability is not uniformly embedded in the social-protection framework or that it systematically affects the poor's poverty line and their entitlements. The study distinguishes three types of categorical blindness: measurement blindness, which refers to the fact that the cost of disability is omitted from the analysis of household well-being; eligibility blindness, which refers to the fact that the cost of disability is not reflected in the poverty line because it is the same for disabled and non-disabled households; and benefit blindness, which refers to the fact that the received value of transfers does not account for disability-related costs. Thus, disabled households can participate formally in cash-transfer Programs but not be adequat…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: disability
  topic: keywords
subject: social protection
  topic: keywords
subject: BISP
  topic: keywords
subject: cash transfers
  topic: keywords
subject: additional costs
  topic: keywords
subject: poverty targeting
  topic: keywords
subject: categorical blindness
  topic: keywords
subject: Pakistan
  topic: keywords
creator: Muhammad Yasir Ali
creator: Qaim Ali
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Muhammad Yasir Ali, Qaim Ali (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 863
ending page: 886
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2256

Expanding National Capacity: How Technical Certification Outscales Consulting in U.S. SME Digital Transformation
type: item
description: Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the structural backbone of the United States economy, contributing substantially to employment, innovation, and economic growth. However, many U.S. SMEs continue to struggle with digital transformation because of limited access to skilled professionals capable of implementing and managing integrated digital systems, making the digital workforce shortage a national economic and regulatory concern rather than merely an organizational challenge. While consulting services have traditionally supported organizational digitalization, their impact is constrained by project-based engagements and finite workforce capacity, with benefits remaining largely localized within individual client organizations. In contrast, technical certification provides a scalable mechanism for developing standardized competencies across a broader workforce, enabling knowledge transfer beyond individual organizations and functioning as a workforce multiplier that expands the national supply of qualified professionals. This review synthesizes literature on SME digital transformation, workforce development, digital skills, human capital, and professional certification to examine how certification-based workforce development can complement consulting while addressing national workforce shortages within the U.S. context. The review identifies persistent barriers to SME digitalization, including inadequate digital competencies, organizational capability gaps, financial constraints, and shortages of qualified professionals. Drawing upon workforce development and digital transformation literature, this paper proposes a conceptual certification-to-deployment framework that expands technical capacity through standardized education and competency validation. The review concludes that technical certification represents a sustainable workforce development strategy capable of strengthening national digital transformation initiatives in the United States while compl…
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: digital transformation
  topic: keywords
subject: SMEs
  topic: keywords
subject: workforce development
  topic: keywords
subject: technical certification
  topic: keywords
subject: digital skills
  topic: keywords
subject: integrated systems
  topic: keywords
subject: human capital
  topic: keywords
creator: Deni Ruben Moreira
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Deni Ruben Moreira (Author) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
date: 2026-03-27
publication date: 2026-03-27
starting page: 851
ending page: 862
doi: 10.63056/academia.5.3.2026.2255