Research Journal of Psychology

A Review of Antidepressant Medications in the Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder: Effectiveness vs. Side Effects

Ahmad Khan — 2025-07-01

Background: Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains one of the most prevalent and disabling psychiatric illnesses worldwide. Pharmacological treatment options include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Each class has unique efficacy and side effect profiles.

Objective: This systematic review aimed to compare the effectiveness, tolerability, and safety of SSRIs, SNRIs, TCAs, and MAOIs for treating MDD in adults.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search (2010–2022) was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar to identify randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses evaluating efficacy and adverse effects. Data were extracted and analyzed descriptively; pooled effect sizes were calculated where appropriate.

Results: SSRIs demonstrated the highest average effect size (Cohen’s d = 0.75), followed by SNRIs (0.68), TCAs (0.60), and MAOIs (0.55). Common side effects included sexual dysfunction and nausea with SSRIs and SNRIs, while TCAs and MAOIs were associated with sedation and weight gain. Younger men showed higher responsiveness but also reported more severe side effects.

Conclusion: SSRIs remain the most effective and commonly prescribed treatment for MDD, though their side effect profile affects adherence. Personalized treatment approaches and further research are needed to optimize outcomes.

Evaluating the Anxiety and Depression Level Among General Surgery Patients Attendants In Tertiary Care Hospital Lahore, Pakistan

Hamna Saif — 2025-07-01

Background: The hospitalization and surgical treatment of patients not only affect the individuals undergoing surgery but also place a considerable emotional and psychological burden on their attendants. Attendants often experience heightened levels of stress, anxiety, and depression due to concerns about the patient's health, possible complications, and outcomes. Understanding the relationship between the patient's health status and the mental well-being of their attendants is essential for providing holistic care and improving both patient and family outcomes.

Purpose: To evaluate the anxiety and depression level among the general surgery patient’s attendants.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study conducted in a tertiary care hospital with a sample of 53 attendants selected using simple random sampling. The levels of anxiety and depression have been assessed using validated scales Generlized Anxiety Disorder-7 and Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23.

Results: The findings of this study revealed that all depression and anxiety questions received favorable answers from the majority of respondents, with a score of (43%) depressive and (34%) anxiety symptoms. While 13% participants have no depression symptoms and (8%) have no anxiety symptoms.

Conclusion: The study concluded that majority of participants have experienced high level of anxiety and depression. These results highlight the need for targeted psychological support and interventions to address the mental health challenges faced by attendants in surgical settings.

Relationship between Cognitive Load and AI Dependence among University Teachers: Moderating role of Decision Making Styles

Qazi Abdullah — 2025-07-02

As the highly robust environment of higher education keeps progressing, university instructors face increasing cognitive imposition due to their multi-role task nature and growing integration of technology in learning. This study investigates the relationship between cognitive load, decision making styles (rational, intuitive) and dependence on artificial intelligence (Al) among university teachers. Data were collected from 240 faculty members of both public and private sector universities in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. A cross-sectional survey design was employed and the Cognitive Load Theory was implemented. Cognitive load (NASA-TLX), Al dependence, and decision-making styles (rational and intuitive) were assessed using standardized instruments. Results established a significant positive correlation between cognitive load, decision making styles and AI dependence. The findings highlight the need for proficient cognitive strategies and measured integration of Al in educational settings to prevent over-reliance and preserve critical thinking. This research contributes to the literature on educational psychology and technology integration and offers practical implications for policy makers and educators in curating focused interventions and training programs to enhance decision-making competence and manage cognitive demands in academic environments.

Balancing Roles: The Impact of Multitasking, Work and Social Adjustment on Decision Making among Married Working Women

Misbah Arshad — 2025-07-03

This study conducted to investigate the relationship and explores how multitasking and ability to adjust to work and social environment impact the decision making among married working women in Pakistan. A cross sectional correlational design is used and collection of data is accomplished through a structured-questionnaires including Everyday Multitasking Scale (EMS), Work and Social Adjustment (WSAS) and Decision Style Scale (DSS) which measure both intuitive and rational decision styles. Questionnaire were distributed by using a purposive sampling among 500 married working women from different job sectors including educational sector that encompassing teachers, lecturers and from medical profession that include nurses, lady health workers, bankers and from women who are in business profession. This study provide insight on women who married more than ten years and their work experience more than eleven years are better in multitasking and performance and their rational decision making strong who have work experience from six to ten year and have less than two years of marriage and work experience from 0-2 years showed better adjustment also strong rational decision making. This study give insight to monitor development over time and investigated how decision making quality of married working women is affected by multitasking and adjustment skills.

Organizational Culture and Financial Management as Determinants of Faculty Performance: Evidence from Public Sector Universities in Pakistan

Dr. Sheeba Zafar — 2025-07-03

This study investigated the effects of organizational culture on the performance of faculty members in public sector universities in Pakistan. The research aimed to identify key indicators contributing to organizational culture, examine its nature, and assess its relationship with faculty performance. Employing a mixed-methods design, data were collected through custom-designed inventories and structured interviews from ten public sector universities across five regions. The instruments measured physical, organizational, social, and psychological dimensions of organizational culture, including variables such as autonomy, flexibility, communication, and team orientation. Data was Analyzed on univariate, bivariate, and multivariate statistical techniques. Findings revealed that organizational culture is a multidimensional construct significantly influenced by demographic variables, and components such as empowerment, coordination, adaptability, and student focus were positively associated with faculty performance. The study concluded that organizational culture plays a critical role in shaping faculty outcomes and that strengthening institutional cultural traits is essential for improving effectiveness in higher education. These findings have implications for policy reforms aimed at enhancing institutional leadership, faculty development, and academic excellence.

Optimism, Resilience, and Psychological Well-Being among Female University Students

Attiya Saleem — 2025-07-05

Optimism, resilience, and psychological well-being are crucial for achieving academic success among university students. This study aimed to explore the interconnection between optimism, resilience, and psychological well-being specifically among female university students. Additionally, it identified the impact of resilience and optimism on psychological well-being. The research involved 300 female students from the Government Sadiq College Women University in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, utilizing a quantitative approach and a convenient sampling technique. Data collection involved questionnaires comprising informed consent and demographic information. The study employed the Revised Life Orientation Test (LOT-R) to gauge optimism, the Brief Resilience Scale to measure resilience, and the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS) to assess psychological well-being. The findings of the study reveal a significant correlation between resilience, optimism, and psychological well-being. These results carry substantial implications. Addressing optimism, resilience, and psychological well-being among female students can uncover the intricate relationship between optimism and psychological well-being while promoting resilient mindsets among university students.

An Assessment Case Report of Special Child with Behavioral and Learning Disorders

Syeda Eisha Bukhari — 2025-07-08

A child R.H is 12 years old boy, who was brought by his father to slow learner’s institute Muzaffargarh for admission and assessment. He was drop out from general education school. The reason for refer to special education school due to his hyperactive and disturbing behavior. Complaints regarding class fellows (physical and verbal fights abusive language) Lack of interest in studies, carelessness in hygiene and concentration problems. Which was diagnosed later un-specified Attention –Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. The psychologist used clinical interview with mini mental stat examination. Behavioral observation, Ravens colored progressive metrics (CPM) for diagnosis. Slossons’s intelligence test was administered to determine the I.Q of the child with curriculum base short assessment test with slow learner screening tool was administered to measure child intellectual level .Screening tool result was moderate to severe in cognitive, academic domains results also shows disturbance in social and emotional domains. Therapeutic techniques include structured targeted individual sessions, rapport building, planned ignoring (dramatic behavior), positive reinforcement, functional communication training were used to work on presenting complaints behavior. Differential instructions method and targeted curriculum modification was done for improvements in educational learning difficulties. Post assessment done on the end of the therapy and interventions. Results shows significant improvements in behavior as reported by the parents’. A significant and gradually improvement shows in his educational results.

Understanding Perceptual Illusion in Children with Special Needs: A Comparison

Dr. Sarah Mufti — 2025-07-10

Purposes: The study aimed to investigate perceptual distortion of visual illusion in children with special needs and mainstream school children.

Method and Material: A sample of N=54 (17 Down Syndrome, 10 Slow Learner and 27 Mainstream Children) with the age range of 6-14 years (Mage =10, SD = .49) were participated in the present study. Data was obtained from different special education and mainstream schools of Jhelum and Sara-I-Alamgir. Quasi experimental research design was used, and purposive sampling strategy was implemented. Poggendorff illusion experiment (1) was used for measuring visual illusion.

Results: There were significant mean age differences on reaction time 1 but non-significant gender differences. Outcome further revealed that there were significant difference in reaction time 3 in mainstream school children and children with special needs.

Conclusion: It was concluded that Down syndrome and slow learner were more perceptually distorted on visual illusion then mainstream children.

Effects of Teacher Competency on Teachers’ and Students’ Self-Esteem and Academic Performance: Evidence from Public Primary Schools in Karachi

Nimra Iqbal — 2025-07-10

This research explores how teacher competency influences students’ academic performance and self-esteem while also examining how a teacher’s self-esteem affects their teaching abilities. The goal was to identify how various factors like teacher confidence, teaching methods, school support, and professional development contribute to better learning outcomes for students. This study is not just about identifying gaps but about understanding the broader dynamics that shape effective teaching and learning. The intent of this research was to shed light on what truly makes a difference in the classroom. It seeks to answer key questions: How can teachers improve their skills? The research is grounded in literature that highlights the vital role of teacher competency in shaping a positive learning environment. Previous studies emphasize that a teacher’s ability to connect with students, explain concepts clearly, and provide constructive feedback plays a significant role in their success. Literature also suggests that when teachers feel supported and have access to training, their confidence grows, leading to better outcomes for students. However, challenges such as resource constraints, lack of professional growth opportunities, and inconsistent support from school administration remain barriers that need attention. The findings of this study are based on surveys and interviews with teachers, students, parents, and school administrators. They reveal a strong connection between teacher competency and student progress. Competent teachers not only improve academic performance but also boost students’ confidence and engagement in the classroom. Teachers shared that professional development programs, regular feedback, and school support are essential for their growth. Parents and students highlighted how approachable, well-prepared teachers make learning easier and more enjoyable. Meanwhile, school administrators pointed to the importance of collaboration, teacher evaluations, and a positive school culture in maintaining teaching standards.

Effect of ICT Equipment and Teaching Resources on the Academic Performance of Grade IX Public Secondary Schools in Karachi

Farah Naz Sherwani — 2025-07-11

Secondary public schools in Karachi were facing the problem that they did not have resources of teaching in their computer labs due to which student suffered and their academic performance was affected. Teaching effectiveness depends upon the resources of teaching or ICT equipment such as lack of computers in computer laboratories. Internationally, research proved that the importance of ICT equipment and used of ICT can enhance the academic performance of public school students. MS Word, MS Excel, PowerPoint and computing practices are some of the tasks in computer laboratories. It is also believed that public school student’s achievement rate could be increased to improve the results. The purpose of this study was to augment the importance of computer usage in public schools and integrate it in teaching. Effective teaching could be done by the ICT. Teachers of public schools in Karachi somehow are not aware how to integrate teaching through ICT training session for effective academic performance. The method of collecting sample in this research was qualitative in nature. During the survey of the study, participants were asked questions. The study was carried out in Major Ziauddin Din Abbasi Secondary Public School. Data was collected and used for analyzing. Sample size for students was 20, while teacher’s sample size was 40. Out of 40 teachers, 19 teachers were from Public schools and 21 teacher from private school. There were two variables in this research; one was independent variable which was equipment of ICT and rest results and performance of students dependent variable. The study focused on the fact that If ICT equipment were available in computer school computer laboratories, effective teaching would be done as it would enhance the student's academic performance. In case of unavailability of ICT equipment, neither effective teaching would be done nor the student's performance would be increased. If one thing increased, the other thing would increase or if one thing decreased, the other thing would decrease too. In this study, the researchers found out the relationship between the ICT equipment or teaching resources in computer laboratories and how they affected the student's academic performance and effective teaching. This study revealed that there was significant relationship between ICT and students’ academic performance. Both students of secondary public school and teacher of both public and private sector confirmed that ICT has a direct effect o students’ learning skills. Training sessions regarding ICT could also be done for both students and teacher for integration of ICT in education.