International Journal of Social Sciences Research
The International Journal of Social Sciences Research (IJSSR), ISSN (Online) 3106-7786 and ISSN (Print) 3106-7778, is published by the Institute of Insight Research (SMC-Private) Limited, registered under No. 0306665. IJSSR is an open-access, quarterly peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing high-quality scholarly research in the field of social sciences. The journal follows a rigorous double-blind peer-review process and is committed to completing the full review cycle within one month, after which authors are promptly notified of the editorial decision. This efficient and transparent review framework ensures the timely dissemination of original and impactful research. IJSSR seeks to achieve wide circulation, enhance global academic visibility, and make a meaningful contribution to contemporary scholarly discourse within the social sciences.
Institute of Insight Research [SMC – Private] Limited
EXAMINING THE IMPACT OF INNOVATIVE WORK BEHAVIOR ON ORGANIZATIONAL PERFORMANCE: EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN
Organizations pursue a range of objectives, from profit generation and service delivery to supporting social causes and research. This study aims to examine the significance of Innovative Work Behavior (IWB) in organizations and analyze its impact on employee performance. Using a cross-sectional design, the study targeted federal employees in Pakistan. Out of approximately 565,082 federal workers, 20,182 employees from the ten largest divisions (primarily BPS 17–22) formed the study's main sample strata. A total of 500 online surveys were distributed, with a cover page explaining the study’s purpose and key terms. Survey data revealed that 66.9% of participants were male, with 50.2% aged between 26 and 35, reflecting a young, predominantly male workforce. The analysis showed strong positive correlations: Innovative Work Behavior significantly impacted job performance (r = 0.832) and task performance (r = 0.808). Additionally, Public Service Motivation was positively associated with societal impact potential (r = 0.827) and task performance (r = 0.802). This study highlights the critical role of IWB in enhancing both task and job performance in Pakistan’s public sector. It underscores innovation as a key driver of organizational success and encourages the development of innovative practices among public employees to improve overall performance.
ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF NATURAL DISASTERS ON FOOD SECURITY IN PAKISTAN
Food security refers to the consistent physical and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food for an active, healthy life. Natural disasters—such as floods, earthquakes, and droughts—can disrupt food systems by damaging crops, livestock, and infrastructure, leading to both immediate shortages and long-term impacts. This study examines the impact of natural disasters on food security in Pakistan from 1990 to 2022, using a quantitative approach with secondary data. Employing a multiple regression model and the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) method, the study investigates how disasters, high-yielding variety (HYV) seeds, irrigated land, climate change, and pesticide use affect daily per capita caloric intake as a measure of food security. Results show a significant negative impact of natural disasters and climate change on food security, with a disaster variable coefficient of -0.055 (p = 0.041). In contrast, HYV seeds and irrigated areas positively influence caloric intake, with coefficients of 0.085 and 2.42, respectively. The model explains approximately 95% of the variation in food security outcomes (R² ≈ 0.95). These findings underscore Pakistan's vulnerability to climate-related shocks and highlight the need for improved agricultural practices and water management to safeguard food security.
OF NATURAL DISASTERS ON FOOD SECURITY IN PAKISTAN
ECONOMIC GROWTH, TOURISM, AND ENERGY USE AS DRIVERS OF CO₂ EMISSIONS: TESTING THE ENVIRONMENTAL KUZNETS CURVE IN PAKISTAN
Tourism has grown rapidly with advancements in communication and transportation, contributing to economic growth but also to CO₂ emissions. This study examines the relationship between tourism, economic growth, energy consumption, trade openness, and CO₂ emissions in Pakistan from 1995 to 2020 using the Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) method and data from the World Development Indicators (WDI). Results show that tourism can reduce CO₂ emissions when supported by strict environmental regulations. However, economic growth, energy use, trade liberalization, and urbanization significantly contribute to environmental degradation. The study recommends promoting sustainable tourism and enforcing strong environmental policies to curb emissions.
CO2 emissions, tourism, GDP, energy consumption, FMOLS, Pakistan.
SOCIO-ECONOMIC DRIVERS OF SMOKING AMONG YOUNG MALE STUDENTS IN PAKISTAN: A CASE STUDY APPROACH
This study investigates the relationship between economic growth, foreign direct investment (FDI), energy consumption (renewable and non-renewable), natural resource rent, and environmental degradation in Pakistan from 1970 to 2023. Using the Auto Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model, the findings support the Environmental Kuznets Curve hypothesis—economic growth initially increases environmental degradation but later leads to improvement. FDI significantly contributes to CO₂ emissions, while renewable energy and natural resource rent help reduce environmental harm. The study underscores the need for sustainable policies that promote renewable energy, regulate environmentally damaging FDI, enforce strict environmental laws, and encourage cleaner technologies and efficient resource use to balance growth with environmental sustainability.
Environmental Degradation, Economic Growth, Energy Consumption, Foreign Direct Investment, Natural Resources
TEACHERS’ PERCEPTIONS OF USING DIAGRAMMATIC REPRESENTATIONS TO TEACH SCIENCE IN PRIMARY CLASSROOMS
Teachers use diagrammatic representations in classrooms to enhance students’ understanding ofscience concepts. This study explores how primary science teachers in public sector schools use, manipulate, and interpretdiagrams to simplify science lessons. Guidedby the research question, "How do teachers use, manipulate, and interpret diagrammatic representations to enhance science learning?", the study employed a qualitative design using semi-structured interviews with ten purposively selected teachers. Data were analyzed using the constant comparative method within a grounded theory framework. Findings revealed that while teachers acknowledged the effectiveness of diagrams in improving student understanding, they rarely used or fully understood how to manipulate and interpret them effectively. Most had not received formal training in this area. The study highlights the urgent need for professional development to build teachers’ competencies in using diagrammatic representations to support science teaching.
Diagrammatical Representations, Constant Comparative Method, Primary Science Teaching, Students’ Educational Achievement (SEA).
THE STRUCTURES OF INEQUALITY: CONTEMPORARY PERSPECTIVES ON SOCIAL STRATIFICATION
This study critically investigates the multidimensional nature of social stratification and inequality in Pakistan, examining how disparities manifest across class, gender, ethnicity, and geography. Employing a convergent mixed-methods design, the research integrates quantitative data from 300 survey respondents with qualitative insights from 30 in-depth interviews conducted in both urban and rural contexts. Drawing on existing scholarship on structural mechanisms, institutional practices, and lived experiences, the study explores how inequality is produced and sustained. Findings reveal substantial disparities in access to education, employment opportunities, and perceptions of institutional fairness, particularly among rural populations, women, and ethnic minorities. Individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds report systemic exclusion, whereas those from upper classes are more likely to perceive meritocracy and institutional equity. Interpreted through the theoretical lenses of intersectionality, Bourdieu’s theory of capital, and Wright’s class analysis, the study bridges theoretical discourse with empirical realities, deepening the understanding of inequality reproduction within Pakistan’s postcolonial neoliberal framework. Policy recommendations emphasize reforms in education, labor equity, gender and ethnic inclusion, and participatory governance. Overall, this research contributes a localized, empirically grounded perspective to the global discourse on inequality by centering marginalized voices and examining socio-demographic dynamics in context.
POSTVOCALIC RHOTICITY IN PAKISTANI VS. BRITISH ENGLISH: AN ACOUSTIC ANALYSIS
This study conducts a comparative acoustic analysis of postvocalic /r/ in Pakistani English (Pak E) and British Received Pronunciation (RP) among BS-level students. While RP is characteristically non-rhotic, PakE displays variable rhoticity influenced by Urdu retroflex /r/ and sociolinguistic factors. Using Praat software, productions of monosyllabic words (car, bar, door, far) were compared with RP references from the Oxford English Dictionary. Results show that Pak E /r/ is more rhotic, with longer duration (~0.39s vs. RP ~0.20s), higher intensity (~71.4 dB vs. RP 56–68 dB), and distinct acoustic features such as visible F4 (~3980 Hz) and lower F2 (~1068 Hz). In contrast, RP /r/ tends toward shorter, fronted approximants with elevated pitch (~218 Hz vs. PakE ~100 Hz). Findings highlight PakE’s divergence from RP, aligning it with rhotic varieties like American English, while reflecting L1 transfer. The study contributes to World Englishes research and offers pedagogical insights for pronunciation teaching.
RELIGIOUS IRONY AND REDEMPTION IN JAMES JOYCE’S GRACE: A STYLISTIC PERSPECTIVE
This paper offers a stylistic analysis of James Joyce’s short story Grace, focusing on how language exposes religious hypocrisy and the illusion of spiritual redemption in early 20th-century Irish Catholicism. Unlike previous studies that emphasize cultural or theological themes, this research applies Leech and Short’s (2007) stylistic model to examine the text at the levels of lexis, grammar, figures of speech, and discourse. The analysis reveals that Joyce juxtaposes formal religious vocabulary with colloquial and euphemistic expressions, employs passive and paratactic syntax, and uses a restrained narrative voice to highlight the performative and socially motivated character of religious practice. Symbolic imagery and flat narration further reinforce the ironic distance between language and faith. The study concludes that Joyce’s stylistic techniques both critique Catholic ideology and demonstrate how language can simultaneously conceal and expose moral truths, offering a satirical perspective on Dublin society
INNOVATION-DRIVEN APPROACHES TO TALENT MANAGEMENT IN STARTUPS
Startups frequently face challenges in attracting top talent due to their limited stability, resources, and brand recognition compared to established firms. However, effectively communicating their potential for growth and innovation can significantly enhance their appeal as employers. This study investigates how startups can leverage clear and strategic messaging about product innovation and future prospects to attract job seekers. A survey of business students was conducted, in which participants evaluated startups based on descriptions emphasizing growth potential and product innovativeness. The findings reveal that startups are perceived as more attractive employers when they explicitly communicate their vision for growth and highlight the novelty and uniqueness of their offerings. Moreover, perceived product innovativeness strongly influences job seekers’ interest and positive evaluation of the firm. These results suggest that entrepreneurs seeking to attract high-quality talent should prioritize transparent, compelling communication of their company’s innovative capabilities and long-term vision to strengthen their employer brand and competitive positioning in the labor market.
Entrepreneurial Hiring; Innovation Signaling
EXPLORING THE INTERPLAY OF EMOTIONAL LITERACY, SELF-COMPASSION, AND MINDSET ON TEACHERS’ WORKPLACE RESILIENCE: A MODERATED MEDIATION APPROACH
With growing attention on academic research, the role of teachers—the cornerstone of education—has become a focal point for investigating factors influencing professional effectiveness (Howard-Jones, 2014). This study examines the relationships among emotional literacy, self-compassion, mindset, and workplace buoyancy in teachers. A total of 168 teachers (mean age = 33.11; SD = 8.25; 25% men, 75% women) from public and private schools, colleges, and universities participated in an online survey during the pandemic, using purposive sampling. Demographic data were collected via a researcher-designed questionnaire, while emotional literacy, self-compassion, growth mindset, and workplace resilience were assessed using validated scales. Moderated mediation analyses revealed that growth mindset moderated the relationship between emotional awareness and workplace buoyancy, suggesting that teachers with a growth mindset exhibited higher resilience in navigating workplace challenges. Additionally, mindfulness significantly mediated the relationship between emotional regulation and workplace buoyancy, indicating that teachers’ awareness of their thoughts and emotions enhanced their ability to manage stress and maintain resilience. These findings underscore the critical role of emotional literacy and mindset in fostering teacher resilience and performance. The study recommends implementing resilience programs for educators that integrate mindfulness practices and promote a growth mindset to strengthen workplace buoyancy
EXPLORING THE INFLUENCE OF GREEN HR PRACTICES ON ORGANIZATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOR AND SUSTAINABLE PERFORMANCE
This study addresses a research gap by empirically examining the relationship between Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices and sustainability performance, and by testing mediation-based hypotheses within the hospitality sector. To address this gap, this study extends the Ability-Motivation-Opportunity (AMO) framework to examine both direct and indirect effects of GHRM practices on sustainability performance. The study specifically investigates the mediating role of Organizational Citizenship Behavior for the Environment (OCBE) in this relationship. The hospitality industry, primarily composed of small and medium-sized hotels, faces significant environmental challenges, including energy conservation, water management, and waste reduction. Broader environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, soil and water pollution, biodiversity loss, and depletion of natural resources further exacerbate these challenges. Using a quantitative approach, data were collected from a random sample of 196 employees across multiple hotel chains, and analysis was conducted using SPSS. Results indicate that GHRM practices have a positive and significant impact on sustainability performance, with OCBE serving as a significant mediator.
Environmental Organizational Citizenship Behavior (OCBE)
SUSTAINABILITY TRAINING IN PRE-SERVICE TEACHER EDUCATION: ADDRESSING POLITICAL ECONOMY AND HIGHER EDUCATION CONSTRAINTS IN PAKISTAN
This study examined the impact of integrating sustainability training into pre-service teacher education programs to address political-economic and educational challenges. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection. The study population comprised 120 pre-service teachers in their 7th semester of the B.Ed. (Hons.) program at a public university in Punjab, Pakistan. Participants were stratified by demographic variables, and a stratified random sampling technique ensured equitable representation. Concept-based, homogeneous pre- and post-training achievement tests revealed significant improvements in the confidence levels of teachers who received sustainability-integrated training compared to those receiving traditional training. The Sustainability in Teaching Self-Efficacy Scale (STSES) measured the enhancement in awareness and confidence after observing the application of sustainability principles in teaching practices. Results indicated a notable increase in sustainability awareness (15%–60%) and confidence levels (15%–45%) following integrated training. The study demonstrated that such training equips pre-service teachers to address global educational challenges by fostering awareness, confidence, persistence, and sustainability skills. Findings underscore the need to incorporate sustainability-focused courses into teacher education curricula and highlight the importance of public-private partnerships to support sustainable development initiatives in education
ECONOMIC AND STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS OF CHINA’S GROWING PRESENCE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
This paper examines China’s expanding role in the Middle East over the past two decades, focusing on its economic, diplomatic, and strategic engagements. It analyzes how China’s energy dependence, Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) investments, and deepening trade partnerships are reshaping regional alignments and challenging traditional power structures. The study primarily investigates the implications of China’s growing economic and strategic involvement on regional stability and global geopolitics. Employing a qualitative, document-based approach, the research reviews policy documents, scholarly literature, and official reports to provide a comprehensive structural analysis. Findings reveal that China’s strategic presence is expanding cautiously yet assertively, leveraging economic influence without direct military involvement, in line with its non-interference policy and pursuit of a multilateral global order. However, regional uncertainties, local financial constraints, and limited security engagement pose challenges that may restrict China’s full exercise of power in the region. This study offers a nuanced understanding of China’s evolving role in the Middle East and provides insights for scholars and policymakers assessing its regional and global implications.
EXPLORING THE LINK BETWEEN LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY AND COGNITIVE SKILLS
This quantitative correlational study investigates the relationship between English language proficiency and cognitive skills among 150 participants aged 18–35 from diverse linguistic backgrounds. Using purposive sampling, the study included both native and non-native English speakers with varying degrees of proficiency. English proficiency was measured through the TOEFL iBT (assessing reading, listening, writing, and speaking), while cognitive ability was evaluated using the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale-IV (WAIS-IV), which examines verbal comprehension, perceptual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. Data were collected in a controlled university language center to ensure temporal consistency. Pearson correlation analysis revealed significant positive relationships between English proficiency and multiple dimensions of cognitive ability. Linear regression further confirmed that English proficiency is a strong predictor of cognitive performance, even when controlling for demographic variables such as age, education, and years of English exposure. These findings suggest that higher proficiency in English is associated with enhanced cognitive capacities, offering important implications for language education policy and cognitive development research.
THE LEGACY OF CLASSICAL ENGLISH LITERARY CRITICISM: INSIGHTS FROM SIDNEY, DRYDEN, AND JOHNSON
This study examines the evolution of English literary criticism through the works of Sir Philip Sidney, John Dryden, and Samuel Johnson, situating their ideas within a neoclassical framework. Using a qualitative approach, the research engages primary texts—Sidney’s An Apology for Poetry, Dryden’s an Essay of Dramatic Poesy, and Johnson’s Preface to Shakespeare and Lives of the Poets—alongside secondary scholarship. The analysis is structured in three parts: first, an exploration of each critic’s views on the poet, poetry, mimesis, and imagination; second, a comparative assessment of classical and neoclassical criticism; and third, an evaluation of how these critics collectively shaped the foundations of modern English literary criticism. The findings reveal that while rooted in classical traditions, Sidney, Dryden, and Johnson reinterpreted and challenged classical ideals, demonstrating the adaptive and enduring nature of literary criticism across eras.
UNDERSTANDING UNSPECIFIED MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER: A CASE STUDY ON DIAGNOSIS, ASSESSMENT, AND MANAGEMENT
This qualitative case study explores the diagnosis, assessment, and management of an 18-year-old male laborer diagnosed with Unspecified Depressive Disorder with mild anxious distress. Through thematic analysis, the study highlights the patient’s experiences, family perspectives, and the impact of external factors such as peer pressure, substance abuse, and emotional distress on depression onset. The therapeutic intervention combined psychoeducation, behavioral activation, and cognitive behavioral therapy, emphasizing early intervention and family involvement. The study advocates for a personalized, holistic approach addressing biological, psychological, and social factors to improve mental health outcomes in adolescents with depression.
IMPACT OF RELIGIOSITY AND BIG FIVE PERSONALITY TRAITS ON UNIVERSITY STUDENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE
This study explores how religiosity and the Big Five personality traits affect the quality of life (QoL) among university students in Pakistan, comparing those from Islamabad and Parachinar. Findings show religiosity, especially intrinsic religiosity, positively influences psychological resilience and life satisfaction. Among personality traits, extraversion and agreeableness are linked to higher QoL, while neuroticism negatively impacts it. Significant differences emerged between students from metropolitan Islamabad and conflict-affected Parachinar, with Islamabad students reporting better QoL, likely due to greater access to resources. The study highlights the importance of socio-cultural context and offers insights for policymakers and educators to enhance student well-being.
CULTURALLY RESPONSIVE ESL TEACHING: MEETING THE DIVERSE NEEDS OF ELEMENTARY LEARNERS
This study examines vocabulary acquisition strategies among elementary ESL learners, drawing on cognitive and social constructivist theories. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through interviews with 20 students and 10 teachers, and surveys of 50 students. Findings reveal that learners employ diverse strategies such as memorization, repetition, mnemonics, and contextual inference. Teacher support, classroom environment, and sociocultural factors significantly influence strategy effectiveness. Although statistical analysis showed limited predictive power (F = 0.315, p = 0.972), the study highlights the complex interaction of cognitive and social elements in vocabulary learning. These insights inform educators and policymakers in designing tailored approaches to improve ESL vocabulary instruction at the elementary level.
WOMEN ON THE MARGINS: SOCIO-ECONOMIC FACTORS DRIVING FEMALE CRIME IN KARACHI
This study explores socio-economic factors contributing to female criminality in Karachi, focusing on substance abuse, income stability, and arrest history. Highlighting the unique challenges faced by female prisoners, it aims to understand how these factors influence the nature of crimes committed. Using simple random sampling, the research provides insights into the often-overlooked experiences of women in the criminal justice system, offering a foundation for developing targeted interventions
MERGER OF FEDERALLY ADMINISTERED TRIBAL AREAS: TRACKING THE IMPLEMENTATION OF ADMINISTRATIVE AND JUDICIAL REFORMS
This study examines the merger of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) following Pakistan’s 25th Constitutional Amendment. It analyzes the administrative and judicial reforms replacing the Frontier Crimes Regulations with the Interim Regulation Act 2018. Using qualitative methods and data from official documents and scholarly sources, the research highlights improvements in governance, legal structures, and socio-economic development, especially in resource management and infrastructure. However, challenges remain in fully implementing reforms. The study recommends ongoing institutional capacity building, economic development programs, and improved judicial access to ensure successful integration and sustainable progress in the region.
PERCEPTIONS, EXPERIENCES, AND COPING STRATEGIES OF WOMEN DIAGNOSED WITH INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS OF PREGNANCY
This qualitative study explores the perceptions, experiences, and coping strategies of women diagnosed with Intrahepatic Cholestasis of Pregnancy (ICP) in Pakistan. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 11 participants from public and private hospitals in Multan and DG Khan. Thematic analysis identified four key themes: disease perception, impact of the disease, coping mechanisms, and cultural beliefs. Findings reveal that ICP is often not recognized as a serious condition, especially in rural areas, yet it significantly affects patients’ psychological health. Women cope through religious faith, social, and family support, while superstitious beliefs about ICP persist in the community. These insights can guide healthcare providers in developing culturally sensitive treatment plans and support for pregnant women facing ICP.
IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON THE DEVELOPMENT AND USE OF ENGLISH MORPHEMES
In today’s digital era, social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have notably influenced English morphology. This study examines how these platforms drive the creation of new morphemes and alter traditional morphological processes such as derivation and inflection. Using a mixed-methods approach with purposive sampling, the research highlights social media’s role in shaping English morphological patterns in informal communication. Findings reveal that English on social media is highly adaptable and creative, with processes like abbreviation, acronym formation, and blending being particularly affected. The study concludes that social media acts as a powerful catalyst for morphological change, integrating novel morphemes into everyday language.
DEVELOPING A PEACE EDUCATION MODEL FOR TEACHER TRAINING IN PAKISTAN
This study proposes a context-specific model for integrating peace education into teacher education programs in Pakistan. Recognizing the vital role of education in peace-building, the model aims to equip pre-service teachers with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to promote tolerance, empathy, and conflict resolution. Using a qualitative approach, the research involved literature review, curriculum analysis, semi-structured interviews with teacher educators and pre-service teachers, classroom observations, and a survey of 100 participants from the University of Karachi and affiliated colleges. Thematic analysis informed the development of a model centered on four pillars: curriculum integration, transformative pedagogy, teacher training and professional development, and culturally sensitive strategies tailored to Pakistan’s socio-political context. The model emphasizes fostering intercultural understanding, social justice, and peace-building competencies. Findings contribute to the discourse on peace education in postcolonial, conflict-prone settings and offer practical recommendations for policymakers and teacher training institutions. Ultimately, the study seeks to empower future educators to create inclusive, non-violent learning environments, fostering broader societal harmony in Pakistan.
peace-building model, curriculum integration
MODI’S HINDUTVA POLICY: IMPACTS ON REGIONAL PEACE AND SECURITY
This study aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of musculoskeletal (MSK) pain among clinical physiotherapists in Lahore due to the physical demands of their profession; a cross-sectional design with 125 participants aged 25–40 was used, excluding those with prior joint surgeries, and data collected via the Standard Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) were analyzed using SPSS v25, revealing a high prevalence of MSK pain—neck (28.8%), shoulders (20%), lower back (32%), knees (11.2%), upper back and feet (2.4%), elbows (1.6%), thighs (0.8%), wrists (0.6%)—highlighting the need for preventive and ergonomic interventions to reduce work-related MSK disorders.
XI JINPING’S ECONOMIC DIPLOMACY AND CHINA’S INFLUENCE ON GLOBAL GOVERNANCE: REGIONAL SECURITY IMPLICATIONS
Since his 2013 election, President Xi Jinping has redefined China’s role in global politics through an expansive economic diplomacy focused on regional integration and building multilateral partnerships under the concepts of “shared destiny” and peaceful coexistence. Xi’s strategy emphasizes economic cooperation, development, and collective security, reflecting China’s core national interests and his vision for global leadership. However, these ambitions carry the risk of disrupting regional power dynamics and pose significant challenges to regional security.
SOCIETAL PRESSURE AND NON-BINARY IDENTITIES: A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF ADAM SILVERA’S THEY BOTH DIE AT THE END
This study critically examines Adam Silvera’s They Both Die at the End (2017), focusing on societal conformity and non-binary gender identities in the novel. Through character development, narrative structure, and thematic analysis, the paper explores how Silvera challenges traditional gender binaries and highlights societal pressures to conform. Using queer theory as a framework, the research illustrates how the novel reflects broader issues of identity, acceptance, and resistance within heteronormative cultures. Silvera’s work is positioned as both a reflection of contemporary attitudes toward gender and a catalyst for discussions on inclusivity and self-expression in a conformist society.