Journal of Professional Research in Social Sciences

Industrial Development under China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC): Accomplished Lessons from China

Tatheer Zahra Sherazi, Irfan Raza, Raza Muhammad — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Economic clusters have been accepted as the most efficient rudiments for urban and regional economic strategies. China being one of those countries who has set an example for the growing economies for successful growth and took considerable amount of people out of poverty (estimated 800 million). Through the rapid industrialization, the economic giant-China has set an example for the rising economies how to transform, design and develop the economic zones. Rapid Industrialization in China was the result of the exclusive expansion of several ‘specialty cities’ with the small, medium and large productions units for the specific product in particular areas for contributing in millions annually. Now CPEC has entered into its robust second phase which comprises of industrialization and development of special economic zones empowered with railway networks, trade promotion and economic development. This study has used Cluster theory in order to investigate the systematic approach of China towards setting up clusters and subsequent development. The ongoing research is qualitative, descriptive and analytical in nature which suggests China is phenomenal in managing its city cluster policy which can provide a base to Pakistan to initiate its enriching plans.

The Challenges Faced by Women in Blue-Collar Jobs

Dr. Naveeda Noreen, Maryam Shoukat, Sajal Asghar, Roobia Farooq — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of women in the labor force where they are consistently making significant economic contributions. Despite constituting 39.3% of the labor force in Pakistan, women face numerous challenges in their workplaces due to societal norms, and behaviors. This study explores the challenges faced by women holding blue-collar jobs in educational institutions in Lahore, Pakistan. This qualitative research unveils a nuanced array of obstacles confronted by women employed in blue-collar positions. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 female security guards and janitors, purposefully selected from two private higher educational institutions in Lahore. Thematic analysis was conducted and a total of four themes were extracted from the data. The findings expose a complex web of challenges that women in blue-collar jobs face including gender-based discrimination, the double burden of domestic and job responsibilities, unique restraints of blue-collar jobs and institutional facilities available to formal labor, and finally the significance of family support. Blue-collar jobs have been an arena of a male-dominated workforce. Women’s participation in this sector has been understudied in Pakistan. The present study aims to highlight the unique challenges that are linked to blue-collar jobs and women’s experiences of these issues.

Influence of TV Talk Show on Political Engagement of the Viewers

Sarfraz Batool — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

This quantitative study examined how TV political talk shows affect viewers' democratic behavior and political engagement. The study included 400 participants who completed an online survey regarding their political beliefs and knowledge after watching TV political talk shows. News media consumption and talk show viewership were linked to positive civic behavior and political issues following in a recent study. No association was found between talk show viewing and voting intention. The study did not prove that talk show topics reflect national concerns. The research shows that Facebook and WhatsApp are becoming key news and information sources. Media consumption affects civic involvement and political understanding yet talk programs may not motivate voters or address the most important concerns. Political campaigns may need alternative voter mobilization methods. Talk programs may not reflect people's concerns or solve the biggest problems. Media outlets and talk show hosts may need to rethink their topics and perspectives to address major social challenges.

Global Fish Production, Consumption, Export, and Import Status

Prof. Dr. Sajid Mahmood Shahzad — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Regarding global concern, fish production, consumption, and international trade have witnessed significant changes in recent decades because of technological improvements, shifts in consumers’ preferences over food and diets, and economic integration. This study aims to give a comprehensive overview of the current state of the fish industry globally, including factors such as production, consumption, and trends in export and import. Production of fish from either wild fishing or farming, which includes both capture fisheries and aquaculture, has gone to an extent that is hard to imagine. Based on the data available, fish production up to 2023 achieved even two hundred million metric tons, of which aquaculture had a significant share. The advancement of technology and species breeding, better fish farming practices, and renewability have become major driving forces in aquaculture production, especially in Asian countries, where the high production level emanates from. Aquaculture, however, seems to be growing at a steadier pace despite the current rate of capture fisheries facing issues like overfishing, climate change, and habitat deterioration that call for increased control and improved fishing methods. Consumption behavior has also changed; fish has now become part of the staple diet considering the nutritional value it has. The average consumption of fish has increased, particularly in developing nations, where fish contribute significantly to protein consumption. The average global per capita consumption stood at approximately twenty-one kilograms per year, hence boosting the requirements due to factors such as increased income levels, increased population density, and more focus on health.

Fear, Fair, or Favor? How Senior Journalists Practice Self-Censorship, A Study of Top News Channels in Pakistan

Dr. Atif Ashraf, Sadaf Durrani, Dr. Tanveer Hussain — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study investigates the reasons and factors behind self-censorship in Pakistani news channels. The study examines the reasons why and where journalists practice self-censorship due to fear where the censorship is the result of potential favors and where the editorial judgments for self -censorship are professional or fair in nature. The method of inquiry was qualitative. The Researcher conducted semi-statured interviews of thirty senior journalists from the top five news channels of Pakistan. The propaganda model and hierarchical influences model provides the theoretic guideline for the study. The results of the study show that job loss, life threats, family security are the fears factors behind self-censorship; personal belongings, afflictions, and financial benefits are the favors that lead the journalists to practice self-censorship. Findings also indicate that Journalists practice self-censorships in professional ways to avoid conflicts in the society.

Competing Visions: Unveiling the Sino-US Rivalry in the Post-9/11 Global Order

Muhammad Owais, Yashfa Ahsan — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The post 9/11 era witnessed a dynamic interplay of military, political, and trade relations between the China and US, encompassing both cooperation and divergence. Despite efforts to foster cooperation, regional differences, particularly in the South China sea, persisted. China aimed to assert its authority in the region, while the US sought regional supremacy and protected its interests. The political relationship involved a delicate balance between strategic ties and political differences, presenting challenges due to contrasting beliefs and economic approaches. Trade relations experienced significant growth and deepened economic interdependence although trade imbalances, market access restrictions, an intellectual property concerns became contentious issues. The US implemented trade measures to address perceived unfair practices, resulting in trade disputes and negotiations. China’s ambitions raised concerns regarding its intentions to reform or replace the existing international order, although it did not aim to replace the US outright. The rivalry between the two nations extended across various dimensions, including the economy, geo-strategic competition, finance, space, and regional crisis. This competition intensified during the Trump administration, which adopted an Indo-Pacific policy to counter China’s influence. Alliance such as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD) and AUKUS pact was formed to address security concerns and contain China’s growing influence. In conclusion, the post 9/11 era and its subsequent phase witnessed a complex interplay of military, political, and trade relations between the China and US, with efforts to foster cooperation accompanied by differences and tensions that shaped the dynamics between the influential nations.

Changing Dynamics of Great Power Relations in Central Asia: Prospects of Cooperation, Competition and Conflict

Dr. Arfan Mahmood — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Geographical norms play a crucial role in state’s behavior and various behavioral patterns are caused including cooperation, competition, and conflict. Central Asia, a region with immense resource potential and values, has triggered competition among the great powers after Soviet’s dismemberment. This article assesses the evolving nature of ‘troika’ power interaction and clout in Central Asia, focusing primarily on Sino-Russian ties and their implications for the US in the theatre of Central Asia. This troika, as a novel prism for interpreting drivers in contemporary state-to-state interactions, demonstrates the dynamics of either cooperation or competition at both bilateral and multilateral levels. Within this triad, there are several “push-pull” factors that drive interactions in all domains, but the nature of interaction is determined by the country. This is a qualitative study which utilizes a neoclassical realist approach to argue that geographical, historical, and cultural factors along with Russia’s military presence in the region as a ‘security provider’ favor Russia over China in the short run while Chinese are best positioned to extend their influence in the long run in Central Asia. The US, on the other hand, seems to be losing in this geopolitical theatre of Central Asia.

The Moderating Effect of Religiosity on Rejection Sensitivity and Depression in Adolescents

Summayya, Dr. Sadia Malik — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The present study analyzed the link between rejection sensitivity depressive symptoms and religiosity in adolescents. The sample was comprised of 500 adolescents (age range 18-22, male = 200, female= 300), recruited from Sargodha and Lahore. Short Muslims Beliefs and Practices Questionnaire, Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire and Depression subscale of Four Dimensional Psychiatric Symptoms were used to measure the variables. Results indicated rejection sensitivity as significant positive predictor of depressive symptoms, and religiosity as negative predictor of depressive symptoms. Stepwise regression analysis demonstrated significant moderating role of religiosity in relationship between rejection sensitivity and depressive symptoms. Significant gender differences were seen for religiosity, rejection sensitivity as female adolescents showed high religiosity and rejection sensitivity than their counterparts. No significant gender variations were observed in depressive symptoms. Findings highlighted the buffering effects of religiosity as the link between depression and rejection sensitivity varies at different levels of religiosity.

Islamic State Khorasan (ISIS-K) In Post Us Withdrawal Afghanistan

Dr Qudsia Akram, Ms Noureen Asif — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The withdrawal of United States (US) forces from Afghanistan marked a significant turning point in the country's security landscape. This research article investigates the emergence and evolution of the Islamic State Khorasan Province (ISIS-K) in Afghanistan following the US withdrawal. The research begins by providing an overview of ISIS-K's origins, highlighting its establishment as an affiliate of the global Islamic State (ISIS) organization in the Afghanistan-Pakistan region. The article then examines the factors that contributed to the group's rise and expansion, including its recruitment strategies, ideological appeal, and exploitation of local grievances. Furthermore, it explores the complex relationship between ISIS-K and other militant groups operating in Afghanistan, such as the Taliban and al-Qaeda. The study assesses the current capabilities and territorial control of ISIS-K, analyzing its operational tactics, funding mechanisms, and recruitment networks. Additionally, it delves into the group's efforts to exploit social media and online platforms for propaganda and recruitment purposes, examining the role of virtual networks in sustaining and expanding its influence. Furthermore, this research article examines the immediate and long-term implications of ISIS-K's presence in Afghanistan for regional and international security. Overall, this research article provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of ISIS-K in Afghanistan post-US withdrawal, shedding light on the complex dynamics of terrorism and extremism in the region.

Role of New Media in Good Governance: A Study of Disaster Management Authorities of Pakistan

Dr. Sumera Batool, Aqsa Zaffer, Dr. Feroza Batool — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The research focuses on the use of social media platforms, specifically Twitter and Facebook, by Pakistan's Disaster Management Authorities during climate disasters in 2022, Murree Snow Storm, Karachi Monsoon rainfall, and floods. Thematic content analysis was conducted to evaluate the type of information disseminated by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and Provincial disaster management authorities of Punjab, Sindh, KPK, and Baluchistan on their Twitter and Facebook. In the light of managerial model, this study indicated that the information posted on the disaster management authorities' social media handles can be categorized into five categories: weather updates, aid distribution, rescue operations, precautionary measures, and other information. Notably, most of this information was posted after the occurrence of the respective natural disasters. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority performed commendably during the floods, actively posting about rescue operations and aid efforts. Similarly, the Sindh Disaster Management Authority demonstrated increased activity during the Karachi Monsoon rainfall, sharing updates on weather, aid, and rescue operations. During the Murree Snowstorm, both the NDMA and Punjab Disaster Management Authority informed the public about weather updates, rescue operations, and aid initiatives for the affected citizens. Likewise, the NDMA and PDMA’s posted warnings, precautions, and aid-related information during the floods. However, their overall performance indicated that the disaster management authorities are still in the preliminary stages of implementing e- governance to attain good governance. Not to mention, NDMA and PDMA’s cater to the outcomes of disaster rather than working on the measures to minimize the factors for disaster.

A Qualitative analysis of Health among Shal Daula Community: Narratives from Gujrat, Punjab Pakistan

Dr. Majid Hussain Alias Ghalib Hussain, Dr. Abdul Rasheed , Muhammad Ali Zia — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The Shah Daula community in Gujrat, Pakistan, has been linked to religious and humanitarian endeavors, especially providing care for youngsters suffering from mental illnesses and microcephaly. The study aimed to examine the social, physical and sexual health issues of Micro-cephalic people (Shah Daula community). The data was gathered by using the qualitative approach. The interviews were conducted with the attendant of the population of the Shah Daula community as they are the caretakers of the Micro-cephalic patient’s health issues from Gujarat and Rawalpindi. The sample was selected by convenience sampling technique and fifteen repondents were selected for interviews. Moreover, the study used thematic analysis for the interpretation of the data. The results showed that the Shah Daula community’s health issues are based on their belief system. Because of these beliefs system, their social, physical and sexual health issues were neglected. No health services were provided to this community regarding their social, physical and sexual health needs. They were stigmatized that they have no disease but they are the gift of GOD (Murad and manat). The findings suggest that there is a need to aware the people to regarding the issue of Micro-cephalic that one should not stick to this health issue with some traditional beliefs and should be provided proper health services according to their needs.

Is It Just a Joke? A Qualitative Exploration of Misogyny, Body Shaming and Sexism in Punjabi Stage Dramas

Muhammad Rizwan Safdar, Hira Siddique — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

Punjabi stage dramas have been facing a negative reputation in recent years due to the obscenity of content presented in them, hence raising concerns about how they are misrepresenting Punjab’s culture. The humor in these dramas flourishes primarily through the humiliation of the women and objectification of their bodies. The present study aims to analyze how the Punjabi stage dramas objectify women and reinforce the negative gender stereotypes through humor. In order to investigate potential responses to the research question, this study employed a qualitative methodology and an inductive content analysis research technique. Upon closely observing and identifying recurring motifs in stage drama episodes, classifications were established and further analyzed to generate themes. The results of the study uncovered some alarming patterns in Punjabi stage dramas where the female body was sexualized and objectified through the use of different metaphors and jokes. The male characters were noticed mocking the female characters on their physique and especially their breast size, hence perpetuating a repulsive environment of misogyny and sexism. The study also discovered another side of masculinity where subordinate masculine roles were sexually harassed by the hegemonic masculine male characters. The study findings suggest an urgent need for the rectification of these problems by portraying a rather positive and practical image of the female gender that represents the cultural values of Punjab and one where their bodies are not objectified.

Impact of Instructional Coaching on Teaching-Learning Process

Dr. Lubna Quddus Warsi, Razia Sultana, Muhammad Toheed Akhter — Sun, 30 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

The study aims to evaluate the impact of ‘Instructional Coaching’ on teaching-learning process. The study highlights the significance of instructional coaching for supporting both teachers and students. It emphasizes the need for effective instructional coaching programs, aligned with individual teacher needs, to foster a culture of Continuous Professional Development (CPD). It also explores the implementation of instructional coaching and its influence on student learning outcomes. The study follows descriptive quantitative research design. A sample of 340 secondary school teachers of District Muzaffargarh was selected using simple random sampling. A self-structured questionnaire was developed. The findings display a positive view of instructional coaching, recognizing its potential to enhance teaching practices and improve student outcomes. Instructional coaching positively impacts student engagement, academic achievement, and critical thinking skills. Additionally, instructional coaching is seen as a valuable continuous professional development opportunity for teachers, fostering a collaborative learning environment and improving job satisfaction and motivation.