Journal of Professional & Applied Psychology

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Treating Aerophobia: A Case Study

2026-01-30T10:04:13+00:00

This case study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for reducing Aerophobia (fear of flying). Aerophobics may be afraid of takeoff, landing, being trapped in an aircraft, or other flying-related experiences. This case study highlights the efficacy of CBT in treating a case of Aerophobia in a 32 years old male, Azhar Qureshi (fictitious name) who was referred by the psychiatrist for psychological intervention. One year ago, he was able to travel in an airplane, but after listening to a traumatic incident, he was unable to travel in an airplane. As he imagined the flight, he felt tachycardia, trembling, sweating, chills, and nausea. These symptoms increased day by day, and that led to avoidance of air travel. After eight sessions of CBT techniques, including psychoeducation, cognitive restructuring, systematic desensitization and exposure therapy, he was able to travel in an airplane comfortably without any fear. The present study underscores the efficacy of psychotherapeutic treatment modality in allieviating symptoms of aerophobia.

From Silos to Systems: Rethinking Psychological Science Through Interdisciplinary Lenses

2025-12-31T23:21:13+00:00

Urdu Translation, Cultural Adaptation and Validation of Personality Belief Questionnaire-Short Form in Non-Clinical Population

2025-12-31T23:21:22+00:00

The Personality Belief Questionnaire-Short Form (PBQ-SF) is a widely used tool for assessing maladaptive beliefs underlying personality disorders. In Pakistan, however, there is an absence of culturally adapted measures to assess these beliefs. This study aimed to Urdu translate, culturally adapt, and validate the PBQ-SF for the Urdu-speaking population. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used. A total of 610 participants were recruited through convenience sampling from diverse demographic backgrounds. The study was conducted in four phases including forward-backward translation, expert review using two Delphi rounds for content validity and cultural adaptation, pilot testing, and testing psychometric properties. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS v26 and AMOS v23. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the original ten-factor structure, demonstrating excellent model fit (CFI = .97, TLI = .96, GFI = .95, RMSEA = .043). Internal consistency was acceptable across subscales (? = .60–.83). Convergent validity was confirmed through significant correlations with the Urdu Big Five Inventory-10. Findings indicate that the Urdu PBQ-SF is a reliable and valid instrument for assessing maladaptive personality beliefs. This study provides a culturally relevant tool for research, clinical practice, and cross-cultural comparisons.

Athazagoraphobia, Psychological Distress and Sleep Quality among Young Adults

2026-01-01T08:15:52+00:00

The current study was conducted to investigate the relationship between athazagoraphobia, Psychological Distress and Sleep Quality among young adults. It was hypothesized that there would be positive correlation between study variables. Correlational research design was employed in this study. Non-probability convenient sampling was used to collect data from 300 young adults (Men=151 and Women= 149). Data was collected using UCLA Loneliness Scale, Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), and Sleep Quality Scale (SQ). Results indicated a significant positive correlation between athazagoraphobia and psychological distress, and a significant negative correlation with sleep quality. Regression analyses showed that athazagoraphobia predicted psychological distress and poorer sleep quality. Gender differences were not significant. The findings highlight that fear of social neglect may contribute to emotional distress and disturbed sleep among youth, emphasizing the need for early psychological support.

Gaslighting, Resilience and Mental Well-being among Young Adults

2026-01-01T08:15:53+00:00

This study explored the relationship between gaslighting, resilience, and mental well-being among young adults in Pakistan. A sample of 400 university students (aged 20–26) from academic institutions in Lahore participated in the study using purposive sampling. Standardized instruments were used to measure gaslighting experiences (Victim Gaslighting Questionnaire), resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale, CD-RISC-25), and mental well-being (Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale, WEMWBS). Pearson’s correlation analyses revealed that gaslighting was significantly negatively correlated with resilience (r = –.25, p < .01) and mental well-being (r = –.33, p < .01). Mediation analysis showed that resilience partially mediated the relationship between gaslighting and mental well-being, with the direct effect of gaslighting on mental well-being remaining significant but reduced when resilience was included as a mediator (B = –.34, SE = .07, p < .001). These findings suggest that resilience serves as a protective factor, reducing the adverse impact of gaslighting on psychological health. The study emphasizes the need for awareness programs targeting emotional abuse, as well as resilience-building interventions in academic settings. Psychologists, educators, and institutional leaders should collaborate to provide supportive environments and mental health resources that empower young adults to cope with manipulative interpersonal dynamics.

Translation and Validation of EPOCH Measure of Adolescent Well-Being

2026-01-01T08:15:51+00:00

The Engagement, Perseverance, Optimism, Connectedness, and Happiness (EPOCH) measure of adolescent well-being-20 was translated into Urdu and validated in this study, which was divided into two parts: part one involved forward and reverse translation of the EPOCH measure, and part two involved the launch of the scale’s psychometric properties. A sample of 428 adolescents from different cities, schools, and institutions were selected; exploratory factor analysis revealed a five-dimensional aspect construct; confirmatory factor analysis goodness-of-fit indices also showed a good fit between the model and the data, and internal consistency values for both the scale and factor dimensions were high. The current study discovered that the EPOCH measure of adolescent well-being is a brief and easy-to-administer tool. The acquired goodness-of-fit index value was .92, the adjusted goodness-of-fit index value was .90, the comparative fit index value was .97, the incremental fit index value was .97, and the root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) score was .05 with a p close value of .02.

Relationship between Emotional Disclosure, Family Communication, Disease-Related Stress, and Quality of Life in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

2026-01-01T08:15:50+00:00

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a chronic disease which mostly kept undiagnosed and is characterized by symptoms like hirsutism, infertility, weight gain, and irregular periods. Pakistan rated a high prevalence of nearly 52% affecting women (Azhar et al., 2020). The present study examines the relationship between emotional disclosure, family communication, disease-related stress, and quality of life of women diagnosed with PCOS. Despite growing research on PCOS, there remains a significant gap in understanding the influence of emotional disclosure and family communication on psychological well-being of affected women. Using a correlation research design, data were collected from N= 115 women with clinically diagnosed PCOS. Statistical analysis revealed that emotional disclosure positively correlated with quality of life (r= .30, p<.01) and family communication (r=.27, p<.01) whereas disease related stress showed a significant negative correlation with quality of life (r= -.68, p<.01). These results suggest that the strong emotional expression and family communication contribute to better psychological adjustment, while stress related to disease diminishes well-being. The study underscores the importance of integrating psychological and family-based intervention and promoting awareness of reproductive health in healthcare and educational settings to improve the overall quality of life for women with PCOS.

Reality Distortions, Self Handicapping and Coping Styles among Elite Class Women

2025-12-31T23:21:30+00:00

The current study investigates the relationship between reality distortions, self-handicapping behaviors, and coping styles among elite-class women. A total sample of 200 participants were selected using a purposive sampling technique. In this study, a correlational survey research design was employed. Standardized self-report measures were used to collect data, including the Cognitive Distortions Related to Relationships Scale (CDRS; Hamamc? & Büyüköztürk, 2004), the Self-Handicapping Scale (SHS; Jones & Rhodewalt, 1982), and a Coping Questionnaire assessing cognitive, emotional, and behavioral coping strategies. Items 2, 3, and 4 were adapted from Holahan and Moos’s (1987) Coping Strategies Scale, while additional items were adapted from Spitzberg and Cupach (2008). The purpose was to investigate how these psychological variables interact under high-stress situations that are typical of women from higher socioeconomic backgrounds. The findings of the correlational analysis showed positive correlations between cognitive distortions and coping skills, while the results show a negative, non-significant relationship between self-handicapping and cognitive distortion. Linear regression analysis also showed a significant relationship with reality distortions and self-handicapping behaviors. The t-test revealed no significant differences between genders in terms of coping strategies and self-handicapping, and distortion of reality. The research indicates the significance of adaptive coping mechanisms in reducing psychological distress in elite-class women. The weaknesses of the current study and future research suggestions are also presented. The study highlights the need for context-sensitive therapeutic approaches that address cognitive distortions and coping patterns specifically among elite-class women.

Impact of Sensory Processing Sensitivity on Job Satisfaction: Burnout as a Mediating Mechanism in Employees of Software Companies

2026-01-01T23:21:18+00:00

The study investigated the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity (SPS), burnout, and job satisfaction among employees of software companies. It was hypothesized that (a) there will be a positive relation between sensory processing sensitivity and burnout (disengagement and exhaustion) and negative relations between sensory processing sensitivity and job satisfaction, and burnout and job satisfaction; (b) sensory processing sensitivity and burnout would predict job satisfaction, and (c) burnout would mediate the relation between sensory processing sensitivity and job satisfaction. The research design employed was a cross-sectional correlational design, involving a sample of 135 employees from various software companies in Pakistan, aged between 23 and 50 years (M = 29.94, SD = 5.30), selected through a non-probability purposive sampling technique. The measures included a Socio-demographic Information Sheet, the Highly Sensitive Person Scale, the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory, and the Generic Job Satisfaction Scale. The results showed a positive correlation between sensory processing sensitivity and exhaustion subscale of burnout (r=.20, p< .05) and a negative correlation between both subscales of burnout, disengagement (r=-.27, p<.01) and exhaustion (r=-.17, p< .05), to job satisfaction. Moreover, disengagement subscale of burnout was identified as a significant predictor of job satisfaction and it also fully mediated the relationship between sensory processing sensitivity and job satisfaction, whereas the exhaustion subscale did not significantly mediate the relationship between SPS and job satisfaction. The study results give insights into the psychological processes that determine the performance and well-being of software workers and the applications of organizational psychology interventions and human resource procedures.

ChatGPT Usage and Attention Related Cognitive Errors in Daily Lives of University Students

2026-01-01T23:21:26+00:00

This research explored the relationship between the usage of ChatGPT and attention-related cognitive errors in undergraduates. Using cognitive load theory, dual process theory, and automation bias, the research examines how the various ways of using ChatGPT (i.e., academic writing aid, task support, and trust and reliance) influence attention lapses. A cross-sectional survey research design was adopted and data was collected from 385 university students with an age range of 18–24 years across various disciplines. The sample size was determined through G power analysis with medium effect size and 95% confidence interval. Standardized instruments such as the Attention-Related Cognitive Errors Scale (ARCES) and a validated ChatGPT Usage Scale were used. Correlation analysis determined that greater trust and reliance on ChatGPT was strongly associated with increased attention-related cognitive errors (r =.50, p <.01) but writing aid showed a non-significant relationship with ARCES (r = -.03). Whereas task support showed a positive relationship (r =.11, p <.05). Independent samples t test indicated female students showed higher attention related cognitive errors in contrast to males. Furthermore, students from humanities and social science disciplines had higher attention errors as compared to the ones from natural science and communication fields. Based on these findings, the artificial intelligence (AI) implementation in education reveals the complex cognitive impact, possibly hinting at its risks of excessive use. The research emphasizes the careful, responsible and ethical use of generative AI technologies such as ChatGPT to maintain some balance between convenience and cognitive engagement and development.

Social Media Addiction, Online Networking and Aggression in Young Adults

2026-01-02T23:21:59+00:00

Social media serves as a communication platform that fosters connections in the digital space. However, problematic interactions with these platforms can negatively impact psychological well-being. Numerous studies indicate that too much social media use leads to several mental health problems. The objective of the study was to investigate the mediating role of online networking in the relationship between social media addiction and aggression among young adults. In this study, the purposive sampling and correlation research design were used. A number of N=270 participants (158 men, 112 women) aged 18 to 30 years, (M=22.79, SD=2.26) participated in the study. Three assessment tools were utilized: The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, Buss and Perry Aggression Questionnaire Short Form and the Revised Social Connectedness Scale. Results show a non-significant positive relationship between social media addiction and online networking. However, the aggression is significantly correlated with both social media addiction and online networking in young adults. Using Hayes' Model 4, the results reveal a partially significant influence of social media addiction on aggression mediated by online networking, with direct and total effects being significantly positive, while the indirect effect is not significant. The results show in gender comparison that men had significant higher levels of addiction of social media, and although, their scores for online networking and aggression were higher than those of women, these differences were not statistically significant. The study discusses its findings in the context of existing literature and concludes with recommendations and limitations, along with suggestions for improving youth welfare.

Defensive Pessimism and Academic Performance in University Students: Mediating Role of Study Efforts

2026-01-02T23:21:51+00:00

This study investigates the relationships between defensive pessimism, academic performance with mediating role of study efforts among university students in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. It was hypothesized that defensive pessimism has a relationship with study efforts and academic performance and study efforts is likely to mediate the relationship between defensive pessimism and academic performance. A correlational research design was employed, and a sample of 285 undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students was selected. Data was collected through standardized scales, including the Defensive Pessimism Questionnaire (DPQ), Academic Performance Scale (APS) and Motivated Strategies for Learning Questionnaire (MSLQ). Pearson product moment correlation and process macro through SPSS were used for data analysis. Results revealed that defensive pessimism significantly correlate with study efforts and academic performance. Moreover, study efforts partially mediated the relationship between defensive pessimism and study efforts. Findings highlight the importance of study efforts in academic performance and suggest that defensive pessimism, though counterintuitive, can positively contribute to academic performance when mediated through study efforts.

Family Environment and Adolescent Mental Health: Unpacking the Mediating Role of Differentiation of Self

2026-01-03T12:43:05+00:00

The mental health problems experienced by adolescents are increasingly recognized as a major concern for public health, with family environment playing a pivotal role in shaping outcomes; however, the underlying intrapersonal mechanisms of this association remain largely unclarified. The primary objective of the present study was to explore the role of differentiation of self in the association between family environment and mental health problems in adolescents. For this purpose, total of 289 boys (56.4%) and 126 girls (43.6%) of grade 9, 10, 11 and 12 were selected from Lahore, Pakistan, through purposive sampling, and age range was 14-20 years (M= 16.21, SD=1.30). Data was collected using Family Cohesion Scale, Family Satisfaction Scale, Differentiation of Self Scale and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale. SPSS 25 was used for data analysis. Pearson Product Moment Correlation showed a significant positive association in family environment and differentiation of self, and a significant negative association between family environment, differentiation of self and mental health problems in adolescents. Mediation analysis showed that differentiation of self partially mediates the association between family environment and mental health problems in adolescents, and after controlling the mediators, the direct effect of family environment on mental health increased (?=-.02, p < .01). This study helps in understanding the role of intrapersonal dynamics in development of mental health problems in adolescents.

Climate Change Induced Anxiety, Perceived Stress and Coping Strategies in Young Adults: Evidence from Pakistan

2026-01-03T12:43:07+00:00

Climate change has generated growing concern about its psychological consequences. This study investigates climate change-induced anxiety (CCIA), perceived stress (PS), and coping strategies among young adults (18–30 years) in Lahore, Pakistan. Using validated instruments i.e., Climate Change Anxiety Scale (CCAS), Perceived Stress Questionnaire (PSQ), and Brief COPE, data was collected from 400 participants via convenience sampling. Anxiety about climate change has a strong positive correlation with adaptive coping, demonstrating that people employ useful coping mechanisms to address their concerns. Additionally, there is a slight positive correlation between climate change anxiety and brief and maladaptive coping, suggesting that some less beneficial strategies are also employed. All forms of coping, particularly maladaptive coping, are positively correlated with perceived stress. Gender differences were found in terms of coping strategies. Females reported to be using more emotion-focused strategies while males reported more substance-use coping. Findings are interpreted through Lazarus and Folkman’s transactional model of stress and more recent theoretical models of climate anxiety, with emphasis on cultural and contextual moderators relevant to South Asia. Implications for theory, future research, and culturally sensitive interventions are discussed.

Regional and Marital Duration Differences in Maladaptive Thought Patterns, Emotional Reactivity, and Sleep Quality in Patients with Depression

2026-01-05T23:24:04+00:00

The present study was conducted to investigate differences in maladaptive thought patterns, emotional reactivity, and sleep quality in terms of region (Rawalakot vs. Lahore) and duration of marriage among patients diagnosed with depression. A total of 212 young adults clinically diagnosed with depression participated in this study. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, and data were collected from psychiatric outpatient departments of the government hospitals and private clinics using a demographic information questionnaire alongside standardized scales, including the Cognitive Fusion Questionnaire, the Perth Emotional Reactivity Scale, and the Insomnia Severity Index. Statistical analyses included independent samples t-tests and one-way analysis of variance, and the results indicated significant differences in maladaptive thought patterns, emotional reactivity, and sleep quality based on regional background, with rural participants exhibiting higher maladaptive thought patterns and emotional reactivity, while urban participants reported poorer sleep quality. Marital duration also influenced sleep quality, with individuals married for five or more years reporting higher insomnia scores. These findings highlight the interrelated functioning of cognitive, emotional, and sleep processes in depression and emphasize the need for integrated treatment approaches targeting these areas. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of culturally and regionally sensitive mental health interventions that account for demographic and marital factors to improve overall mental health and sleep outcomes. The current study can provide guidance for clinicians and researchers in designing effective assessment and intervention strategies for individuals with depression in Pakistan.

Childhood Trauma and Adult Mental Health among University Students: Social Support as a Moderator

2026-01-05T23:23:54+00:00

Adverse childhood experiences play a significant role in the development of mental health issues throughout the life span. The current study was conducted to examine the moderating role of social support in the association between adverse childhood experiences and mental health issues. The study was based on a cross-sectional design and comprised a sample of university students (N=213) with an age range of 18 to 30 years, approached through a convenience sampling technique. The childhood trauma questionnaire (CHQ), the mental health inventory (MHI), and the multidimensional scale for perceived social support (MSPSS) were administered. The findings of the study revealed that childhood adverse events were significantly positively associated with anxiety, depression, and loss of behavioral control. On the other hand, childhood trauma showed a negative association with social support, general positive affect, emotional ties, and life satisfaction. Furthermore, the interaction between childhood trauma and social support significantly predicted anxiety, depression, and loss of behavioral control, while adversely predicting general positive affect and life satisfaction, although, the relationship between childhood trauma and emotional ties was not moderated by social support. Additionally, levels of childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and loss of control were higher in female students than in male students. In contrast, male students showed a high level of social support, general positive affect, emotional ties, and life satisfaction as compared to females. Overall findings uncover the role of social support in association with adverse psychological effects of childhood trauma and positive mental health outcomes.

Translation and Validation of Global Deterioration Scale

2026-01-05T23:23:45+00:00

The current study aimed to translate and validate the Global Deterioration Scale (Reisberg et al., 1982) into Urdu language to be used in Pakistan as it is the national language and easily understandable among population of Pakistan. Therefore, it was important to translate and validate this tool to break the language barrier. The purposive sampling was carried out and dementia patients were identified. For the validation of the study, sample of (N=210) of dementia patients was taken and the translated version was administered on them. The patients were approached in the outdoor patient ward of Neurology at General Hospital and Services Hospital Lahore. MAPI guidelines were used for the purpose of forward and backward translation. Findings showed that global deterioration scale has significant positive relationship with cognitive brief rating scale. It revealed that translated version of the scale has good convergent validity. The findings also revealed that there is a difference of global deterioration scale scores between males and females.

Perfectionism in High School Students: A Moderated Mediation Model of Self-Criticism, Attachment, Mental Health and Academic Performance

2026-01-08T23:24:00+00:00

Self-oriented perfectionism is commonly encouraged in academic settings, yet in some situations, it may become maladaptive under certain psychological and relational conditions. This study examined a conditional process model in which mental health problems mediated the relationship between self-oriented perfectionism and academic performance among high school students. Self-criticism was tested as a risk-enhancing moderator, whereas parental trust and communication were examined as a protective buffer. In this study, data was collected from 274 high school students (Male=128, Female=146; M_age=15.94, SD=1.01) using standardized measures of self-oriented perfectionism, self-criticism, mental health problems, parental trust, communication, and academic performance. Moderated mediation analyses using PROCESS Model 29 revealed that perfectionism was associated with higher mental health problems at elevated levels of self-criticism. Mental health problems were, in turn, related to poorer academic performance. Parental trust and communication attenuated the negative association between mental health problems and academic performance, and communication also moderated the direct effect of perfectionism on academic outcomes. Conditional indirect effects supported a significant moderated mediation, highlighting the protective role of parental attachment in buffering academic risks linked to maladaptive perfectionism in adolescence.

A Comparison of Personality Traits of Chartered Accountancy Students and Chartered Accountancy Professionals

2026-01-08T23:24:09+00:00

The current study used cross-sectional design as it aimed to compare the personality traits of Chartered Accountancy (CA) Students and Chartered Accountancy Professionals. The objective of this study was to look for any differences that may have appeared in the personality of CA students as they became professionals. A sample of 255 participants was taken (CA Students=154 and CA Professionals=101) from the age range of 18-70. The data was collected through snowball sampling technique using Big Five Inventory-44, a likert type questionnaire. The data was then manually entered in SPSS Version 20 for statistical analysis. Independent samples t-test was applied for comparing the personality traits of CA students and CA professionals. The results showed that there was a significant mean difference found on extraversion between Chartered Accountancy (CA) Students and Chartered Accountancy Professionals. CA professionals had a significantly higher score on extraversion than CA Students. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between CA Students and CA Professionals on the neuroticism. The CA Students scored high in comparison to CA professionals on the personality trait of neuroticism. Moreover, there was a significant difference between CA Students and CA professionals on conscientiousness. The CA professionals scored higher than CA Students on conscientiousness. There was no significant difference found between the scores of CA professionals and CA students on the scales of agreeableness and openness to experience. These findings have clear implications for Chartered Accountancy training programs and can contribute to further research.

Sociocultural Pressure as a Mediator Between Neuroticism and Aesthetic Treatment Experiences: The Pathway of Pressure

2026-01-09T13:35:28+00:00

The objective of current study was to investigate the mediating role of the perceived sociocultural pressure in the association between neuroticism and treatment experiences of aesthetic procedures. The sample of the study was selected through purposive sampling technique and included 300 (Men = 45%, Women = 55%) adults aged 21-45 years (M = 28.5, SD = 6.58). The treatment experiences scale, big five personality scale and perceived sociocultural pressure scale were administered. The findings of the study showed that neuroticism had a significant positive relationship with perceived sociocultural pressure and with treatment experiences of aesthetic procedures. Furthermore, mediation analysis showed that perceived sociocultural pressure is partially mediating the relationship between neuroticism and aesthetic treatment experiences.

Linking Emotional Intelligence to Charismatic Leadership: Evidence from Management Students

2026-01-10T23:25:10+00:00

This study examines the charismatic potential of future leaders among students enrolled in management sciences programs in selected regions of Pakistan. Charismatic leadership plays a critical role in inspiring and influencing others, particularly in diverse and dynamic environments. Using a quantitative, correlational (cross-sectional) research design, this study assessed the relationships among charismatic leadership, charismatic communication, and emotional intelligence. Data were collected through a survey method using purposive sampling. A total sample of 249 postgraduate students from universities in Islamabad, Punjab and Azad Jammu & Kashmir participated in the study. Results showed that emotional intelligence significantly predicted charismatic leadership communication (R² = .32, p < .001), and notable differences were observed across gender. Male students scored higher on charismatic communication. The findings of this study have significant implications for leadership development programs, educational institutions and organizational practices in Pakistan, to inculcate emotional intelligence and charismatic leadership into trainings and skillsets for university students as well as for leaders and managers in workforces.

Doomscrolling, Learned Helplessness and Existential Anxiety among Emerging Adults

2026-01-10T23:25:02+00:00

The present study investigated doomscrolling and existential anxiety, with a specific focus on the mediating role of learned helplessness. A cross-sectional survey research design was carried out on 323 participants (125 men, 198 women) aged 18–29 years. Participants completed the Doomscrolling Scale to assess compulsive engagement with negative news, the Learned Helplessness Scale to measure feelings of powerlessness, and the Existential Anxiety Questionnaire to evaluate concerns related to fate, death, and meaninglessness. Correlation analyses revealed a significant positive relationship among study variables. Mediation analyses further indicated that learned helplessness significantly mediated this relationship, suggesting that compulsive exposure to negative digital content increases feelings of helplessness, which in turn amplifies existential concerns. The findings highlight the critical role of learned helplessness as a psychological mechanism linking excessive engagement with negative online content and existential anxiety. These results underscore the potential mental health risks associated with digital overexposure, particularly among emerging adults who are highly active on social media. From a cultural perspective, the study provides insight into how these phenomena manifest in the Pakistani context, where societal and environmental factors may influence experiences of powerlessness and existential dread. Interventions aimed at reducing compulsive consumption of negative media, enhancing coping strategies, and fostering psychological resilience may help mitigate existential anxiety in this population. Future research should explore longitudinal designs to establish causal relationships.

Relationship between Religiosity and Psychological Well-being among Muslims in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan

2026-01-10T23:25:18+00:00

Religiosity is seen to be an important element for the psychological well-being of an individual, especially in spiritual societies like Pakistan. This study aims to investigate the correlation between religion and psychological well-being among Muslims in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. A total of 300 Muslim adults (Men = 150; Women = 150) were recruited from the cities of Mardan and Peshawar. The age of participants ranged between 20–60 years. A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey design with a purposive sampling technique was employed. The IIUM Religiosity Scale (Mahudin et al., 2016) and Ryff’s Psychological Well-being Scale (Ryff & Singer, 2006) were used to assess religiosity and psychological well-being, respectively. Data were analyzed using SPSS (Version 25) through descriptive statistics, correlation, and t-tests. Results revealed a significant positive relationship between religiosity and psychological well-being. To conclude, individuals with higher religiosity tend to experience greater psychological well-being. Future research may include diverse populations and explore the role of religiosity-based interventions in enhancing the psychological health.

Belonging, Rejection Sensitivity and Hikikomori Withdrawal among University Students

2026-01-16T23:30:56+00:00

The pivotal developmental stage of adulthood considered as prime years includes critical decision making related to academic attainment, career selection, spouse selection which are closely tied to social approval, financial stability and competence. Although hikikomori has been extensively examined in Japan, evidence from South Asian context is scarce. This gap could be ascribed to excessive social conformity, dependence of family system and stigma related to mental health. Given the substantial psychological, social, and functional consequences of this phenomenon, particularly within the Pakistani sociocultural milieu, systematic investigation is warranted to inform culturally responsive clinical practice and advance scholarly discourse. The current study investigated the association between interpersonal rejection sensitivity, hikikomori and social connectedness among university students. Convenience sampling was used to recruit sample of n = 330 young adults, aged 18-25 years through cross-sectional correlational research design. The sample comprised students enrolled in public and private universities in Lahore, Pakistan. Data was gathered using self-report questionnaire consisting of informed consent form, demographic sheet, Interpersonal Rejection Sensitivity Scale, Hikikomori Questionnaire, and Social Connectedness Scale-Revised. All three scales employed Likert-type format scales. Following the descriptive analysis, the study hypotheses were tested using Correlation and Linear Regression analyses. The results revealed significant associations among the study variables and identified interpersonal rejection sensitivity as a significant predictor of hikikomori tendencies. Overall, study contributes empirical evidence and offers meaningful implications regarding the relatively underexplored psychological challenges faced by contemporary youth.

Impact of Death Anxiety and Psychological Distress on the Quality of Life of Thalassemia Patients

2026-01-25T13:25:28+00:00

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between death Anxiety, psychological distress and quality of life among thalassemic patients. The quantitative research design was used, utilizing non probability purposive sampling to draw sample size of (N=103) adult thalassemic patients of aged 18 to 40 years. Consent form and demographic sheet was provided to each participant. Urdu versions of Death Anxiety Scale, Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale (DASS-21), and EUROHIS-QOL-8 items Scale were administered to each participant. Data was analyzed by using regression analysis, Pearson correlation and independent t test. The regression analysis shows that death anxiety negatively impacts the quality of life of thalassemia patients (? = -.62, p < .001). The correlation analysis finds out that psychological distress is negatively correlated (r= -.58**) with the quality of life. Further correlation analysis shows that psychological distress has stronger positive association (r= .88**) with the death anxiety. The independent t test showed statistically significant gender difference in the psychological distress. The findings of this study will help nurses, health care professionals and thalassemic centers to improve the thalassemic patient’s quality of life by applying interventions and appropriate therapies.