International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh <p>International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (IRJSSH) is a peer reviewed International scholarly journal published by Al-Zouq Educational Research Centre. It is dedicated to scholarly study of all aspects of Social Sciences and Humanities. Objectives of IRJSSH are to provide a platform for researchers, academicians, and practitioners to share their research findings and innovative ideas in the field of Social Sciences and Humanities.It is to facilitate communication and collaboration among researchers and practitioners in different regions and disciplines to publish high quality, original, and innovative research papers that contribute to the advancement of knowledge which further affect the overall development of peace in the society.The main objective of the International Research Journal of Social Science and Humanities (IRJSSH) is to offer an intellectual platform to the International scholars and it aims to promote interdisciplinary studies in Humanities and Social Sciences.All manuscripts must be prepared in English and are subject to a double-blind peer review process.</p> en-US irjssheditor@gmail.com (Saad Jaffar) irjssheditor@gmail.com (Editor) Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:58:33 +0000 OJS 3.3.0.11 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 BEYOND THE SURFACE: UNMASKING SYSTEMIC FUNCTIONAL GRAMMAR LENS TO ECOLOGICAL DISCOURSE ANALYSIS IN "THE NECKLACE" https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/200 <p>Eco-linguistics is a new field of linguistics that combines linguistics with ecology. In 1972, Einar Haugen was the first to use the term "ecology" in linguistics and to define the term "language ecology." The purpose of this study is to examine an ecolinguistic viewpoint on Guy de Maupassant's short story "The Necklace." This study aims to observe how lexico-grammatical elements elucidate the discourse as eco-destructive, and how the story reflects the discourse's ecological orientation from an eco-linguistics perspective. The study is descriptive. The qualitative approach is used. The data analysis of this study has included content/textual analysis. Halliday’s systemic Functional Grammar (1990) is taken as a tool to analyze the function of the discourse. Naess’s ecosophy (1995) is used to describe the ecological orientation of the discourse. The original text of the discourse is the sample of the study. To evaluate the discourse as eco-destructive discourse and ecological orientation of the discourse, the researcher focused on two metafunctions of SFG: ideational and interpersonal metafunctions. The findings of the study demonstrated that the lexico-grammatical aspects explain how the discourse "The Necklace" is ecologically&nbsp;destructive. The identified processes through ideational metafunctions and the high degree of modality in interpersonal metafunctions provide the true reflections of eco-destructive discourse in the story “The Necklace”. The ecological orientation of the discourse also leads to destruction. Naess’s (1985) idea about ecosophy also reflects that Ecological Discourse Analysis of the story (Discourse) opposes his concept of ecosophy “LIVING”. The protagonist of the story cannot live well-being, valued, sustainable, and cared for life. In other words, eco-destructive discourse is opposing the ecosophy, sustainability, and value of living life.</p> Tayyaba Tajamal, Fauzia Janjua Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/200 Wed, 04 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 THE UNIVERSAL TEACHINGS OF ISLAM AND THE DIVERSE IDENTITY OF PAKISTANI SOCIETY https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/203 <p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;"><em>This research article primarily elucidates two aspects. The first aspect attempts to provide a genuine interpretation and understanding of Islam. While this endeavor is not overly extensive or heatedly debated, it does point out significant key points. These points either encompass the fundamentals of Islam or elaborate on its ethics and principles. In this way, the discussion covers not only the overarching matters of Islam but also specific details that highlight the distinct and guiding nature of Islam compared to other religions.The second aspect is presented in considerable detail. This is crucial because we are all witnesses to the uncertain situation in Pakistani society. This society is neither striving to become religiously literate nor showing enthusiasm for modern scientific understanding. Instead, every individual here seems to lead a life that, while exhausting, also immerses them in the deep sea of futility. Their preferences are unclear, and their goals remain unattained. They engage in activities masked as 'busyness,' which cannot sustain fulfillment. Furthermore, there are abundant reasons for concern.Additionally, another significant reason for the malaise in Pakistani society is the overwhelming emotional factor. Rather than nurturing a spirit of various religious beliefs and sects, pathways leading to extremism are being paved. Under such circumstances, instead of fostering ideas and theories, outdated dogmas and factions thrive, leading to an individualistic mindset that erodes the concept of national unity. This research article is structured to clarify and highlight these observations. It is hoped that it will prove useful for researchers focusing on the intersections of religion and society, if not in entirety, at least in certain aspects</em>.</span></p> Muhammad Riaz Malik Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/203 Sat, 07 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 AYUBIA NATIONAL PARK: EVALUATING SOCIO-ECONOMIC IMPACTS ON LOCAL COMMUNITIES AND SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/210 <p style="text-align: justify;"><span lang="EN-US">Ayubia National Park (ANP) serves as a critical area for biodiversity conservation and sustainable tourism in Pakistan. This research examines the socio-economic impacts of ANP on local communities and its contribution to sustainable tourism development. Data was collected through surveys, interviews, and field observations from 300 local residents. Results show that tourism in ANP has significantly improved local livelihoods by creating employment opportunities, enhancing education levels, and uplifting living standards. Most respondents (92.8%) believe tourism has enhanced the community's image, and 88.4% credit it for increasing education levels. The study also highlights challenges, including waste generation, wildlife conflicts, and restricted access to park resources. Approximately 70.8% of respondents face crop and livestock losses due to wildlife, such as leopards and monkeys. Despite these challenges, 77.2% of locals benefit directly from tourism, mainly through businesses and agriculture, though most remain in low-income brackets. While 68% of respondents indicated involvement in decision-making, concerns about the fair distribution of benefits persist. The study concludes that ANP significantly contributes to the local economy and social cohesion. However, sustainable tourism practices, such as waste management, wildlife conflict mitigation, and greater community participation, are necessary to balance conservation goals with local livelihoods. Recommendations include inclusive management, enhanced infrastructure, and compensation for wildlife-related losses.</span></p> Basit Ali , Anas Mahmud Arif , Mursaleen Khan , Fawad Ahmad Khan Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/210 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 AN ECOLINGUISTICS EXPLORATION OF SAQIB MALIK’S POETRY THROUGH THE LENS OF STIBBE’S ‘STORIES WE LIVE BY’ https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/213 <p>Ecolinguistics, as a field of study, examines the intricate relationship between language, society, and environment. This research explores Saqib Malik’s (1990) poetry through the lens of Stibbe’s (2015) <em>‘Stories we live by,’ </em>aiming to uncover the way ecological narratives are interwind with social issues. While previous studies primarily focused on Sufi and natural poetry, this study addresses a gap by highlighting Malik’s multifaceted approach, which engages with a variety of topics beyond nature, particularly social concerns. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research applies Stibbe’s (2015) framework emphasizing two concepts: framings and metaphors. The findings reveal that Malik’s (1990) poetry not only reflect social realities but also encourages readers to engage with ecological perspectives, thus broadening the concept of ecolinguistics analysis. This study underscores the significance of diverse poetic voices in understanding the connections between language, culture, and ecological awareness.</p> Faseeha Noor Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/213 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 A CRY FOR DEMOCRACY: THE DARK REALITY OF ETHNIC BELLIGERENCE AND HYSTERIC VIOLENCE IN NIGERIA https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/215 <p>Julie Okoh’s play <em>A Cry for Democracy</em> is a poignant examination of Nigeria’s tumultuous history of ethnic conflict and violence. Set against the country’s colonial legacy and its post-colonial struggles, the play articulates a narrative that exposes the destructive impact of oppressive political systems on the Nigerian populace. Through a tripartite structure, Okoh illuminates the complexities of pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial Nigeria, drawing upon Frantz Fanon’s theories of oppression to analyze the internalized violence and self-loathing perpetuated by colonial rule. This research explores the concept of democratic womanism articulated by Alice Walker and how it frames the struggle for social justice in a nation reeling from years of exploitation. By connecting the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria with the brutal realities imposed by both colonizers and contemporary leaders, the play calls for a radical rethinking of leadership and community solidarity. Looking ahead, the study advocates for further exploration of womanism as a transformative movement that can empower Nigerian women and forge a path toward genuine democracy. It underscores the need for continued dialogue on the intersections of gender, politics, and post-colonial identity. It suggests that a collective awakening among women may be key to reshaping Nigeria's future.</p> Kanwal Zafar , Dr.Fatima Hassan , Zoya Aziz Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/215 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 TUINA THERAPY FOR MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN RELIEF: EXPLORING ITS IMPACT ON KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS, BACK AND SHOULDER PAIN https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/211 <p>Musculoskeletal pain, such as knee osteoarthritis, back pain, and shoulder pain, is quite common and often hurts a person's quality of life. Conventional treatments can only bring minimal relief, thus making it imperative for individuals to turn to alternative therapies like Tuina therapy. Tuina is a historical Chinese manual therapy acupressure, joint manipulation, and muscle techniques used to relieve pain and increase mobility.Homeopathic and Tibbi Medical Center treated 60 patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis, back pain, and shoulder pain at Islamia University, Bahawalpur. The therapy included joint manipulation techniques along with acupressure tuina. Pain levels and flexibility improvements regarding the patients were measured before and after treatment.Patients suffering from knee osteoarthritis reported 57% less suffering from pain and a 25% improvement in flexibility. Patients with back pain reported a reduction of 64.7% in pain and an improved flexibility of 30%. Patients with shoulder pain showed a decrease of 51.3% in pain and a 20% increase in the range of motion. Overall, around 70% of the patients rated therapy as excellent.The therapy practiced in Tuina proved very helpful in reducing musculoskeletal pain and also improved flexibility or range of motion in cases of knee osteoarthritis, back pain, and shoulder pain. This points to the fact that Tuina therapies can be a complementary form of treatment in chronic musculoskeletal morbidity and should be further studied in larger studies with control groups.</p> <p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">.</span></p> Muhammad Asim, Faizan mohi ud din Rawa , Dr. Zumar Rizvi , Faziyya Latif , Faiza Jamshaid Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/211 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 IMPACT OF GAMIFICATION ON CHILDREN'S PHYSICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH: BENEFITS AND RISKS https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/216 <p>The rapid digitization of the media has integrated gamification into various aspects of children's lives, significantly influencing their physical and mental health in significant ways. This research paper explores the multifaceted impact of gamification in digital media, outlining its benefits and risks. Gamification can promote physical activity through digital fitness apps and active video games; however it also poses risks such as increased sedentary behavior and health issues from prolonged screen time. Regarding mental health, gamified digital media can enhance cognitive skills, emotional well-being, and social interaction, but it also brings potential downsides, including addiction, exposure to cyberbullying, and heightened anxiety in competitive environments. This comprehensive analysis aims to provide insights into optimizing the positive impacts of gamification while mitigating its adverse effects on children's health.</p> Rana Faizan Ali, Dr.Syed Raghab Ali, Abbas Rashid Butt Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/216 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 LEGAL FRAMEWORKS AND CASE LAWS IN ADDRESSING CLIMATE CHANGE AND EXTREME WEATHER EVENTS IN PAKISTAN https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/220 <p>One of the most vulnerable countries to climate change, Pakistan experiences frequent, severe weather events — such as flooding, droughts, and heat waves. In response, the country has developed statutory frameworks and has been a party to landmark climate litigation around these pressing issues. The function of reducing climate hazards in Pakistan via current key climate-related laws, the Pakistan Climate Change Act of 2017, the National Climate Change Policy of 2012, and the National Disaster Management Act of 2010 are analyzed in this article. It also examines case laws, including Leghari v. Pakistan. In 2015, the Federation of Pakistan established precedence for climate accountability in securing citizens’ fundamental rights from the state during climate transformation. Pakistan has advanced in climate governance, but implementing and enforcing its legal frameworks is always challenging. This article emphasizes that Pakistan’s judiciary and legal frameworks now play an increasing part in determining the country’s climate resilience status and that of future generations.</p> Dr.Parveen Gul , Ms.Bushra Zeb , Ms.Kainat Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/220 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 DELUSION AND DISPLACEMENT: THE IDENTITY STRUGGLE IN ‘THE ISLAND OF MISSING TREES’ https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/222 <p>This study explores the issue of identity crises in Elif Shafak's The Island of Missing Trees, examining how characters manage their sense of self amidst displacement, cultural hybridity, and historical trauma. Drawing on Marcia's (1966, 2002) model of identity formation and Erikson's (1968) theory of psychosocial development, the study looks into how people struggle with rootlessness and belonging. The study uses thematic analysis (Braun &amp; Clarke, 2006), with a focus on the cultural, social, and psychological components of identity formation. The analysis reveals how the novel's protagonists deal with internal difficulties affected by historical events, migration, and personal connections. The study, which follows an interpretivist paradigm (Denzin &amp; Lincoln, 2011), highlights the flexibility of identity as well as the impact of social settings. The study investigates the characters' psychological and emotional issues using Marcia's identity statuses as well as Erikson's identity vs. role uncertainty and closeness vs. isolation stages. The findings indicate that identity is a dynamic process impacted by memory, displacement, and social expectations (Misztal, 2003). This study adds to postcolonial literary debate by demonstrating how literature reflects the intricacies of identity creation in a transnational and historical context, so providing a deeper understanding of identity battles in diasporic and culturally varied environments. <br><br></p> Moin Ud Din, Sohbat Ali , Sajid Ali , Azhar Abbas , Amna Khatoon Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/222 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN AUTONOMY AND CAREER DECISION MAKING AMONG ADOLESCENTS AT SECONDARY AND HIGHER SECONDARY LEVEL https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/226 <p>As students enter the secondary and higher secondary level, they face a crucial decision of career decision making. One of contributing factor in career decision making is autonomy. In current study, the relationship between autonomy and career decision making. Career decision making indicator (CDMI) and Index of Autonomous Functioning (IAF) along with demographic sheet was administered on a sample of 384 students of class 9th, 10th, 1st and 2nd year. The age range of participants was 14 -21. Results indicated that there is significant positive relationship between autonomy and career decision making. Autonomy is the significant predictor of career decision making among students. Females scored significantly lower on career decision making. was positively related to autonomy and career decision making.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> Dur E Shawar , Dr. Sher Dil , Warda Sadiq Copyright (c) 2025 https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/226 Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000 DEVISING SPEAKING ACTIVITIES BASED ON THE TEXTBOOK FOR IMPROVING READING COMPREHENSION AT INTERMEDIATE LEVEL https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/224 <p><em>Speaking and listening skills are significant in any language of the world. They are oral skills and come before reading and writing. Yet unfortunately in most of the Pakistani public schools and colleges these two very essential skills are considered secondary. The focus of teachers and even of syllabus designers of government colleges in Pakistan is on reading and writing skills and little importance is given to speaking and listening skills, especially in the public schools. The situation is even worse at intermediate level, where the learners are deprived of learning English language using all four skills together, especially speaking skills. </em><em>The present research explores how devising speaking activities related to core text can help students enhance their reading comprehension skills. Learning language skills in connection with each other is also supported by the integrated skills approach which suggests that all four skills of language must be taught in a combined form rather than in isolation. </em><em>The purpose of this research is to observe the usefulness of devising speaking activities based on core text of English for developing language proficiency in English specially in reading comprehension skills. The research has been conducted at Federal Government College Bahawalpur and the participants were students of Intermediate level and teachers from private and Government colleges.</em></p> Sana Mansoor , Dr. Ubaidullah Khan, Dr. Muhammad Saqib Zaigham Copyright (c) 2024 International Research Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities https://irjssh.com/index.php/irjssh/article/view/224 Tue, 31 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000