Impacts of Post-Terrorism in Conditioning the Neurobiological and Psychological Aspects of Life: A Study into Cognitive Behaviours of College Students of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan Through the Lens of Conscientization
Impact of Post-Terrorism on Neurobiological and Psychological Aspects
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i3.1334Keywords:
Post-terrorism, neurobiological and psychological aspects, cognitive behaviours, college students, conscientization, cognitive distortionAbstract
Background: Post-terrorism events have significantly impacted the psychological and neurobiological aspects of life, particularly among college students in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Pakistan. This study explores how these experiences shape cognitive behaviors, speech patterns, and emotional responses.
Objective: To analyze the impact of post-terrorism on the neurobiological and psychological conditioning of college students in KP through the concept of conscientization.
Methods: This qualitative study involved 200 college students selected through purposive and snowball sampling from various colleges in KP. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs), and feedback forms. Thematic analysis was conducted to identify key patterns and cognitive distortions, and SPSS version 25 was used for data analysis.
Results: Cognitive distortions such as overgeneralization and catastrophizing were observed in 88% of respondents. 80% reported decreased academic performance and 75% experienced significant emotional distress, including anxiety and depression. Behavioral changes, including increased aggression, were noted in 73% of participants.
Conclusion: Post-terrorism has profound neurobiological and psychological effects on college students in KP. While conscientization shows potential in fostering resilience, comprehensive mental health interventions are needed
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