Life Failures and Their Coping Mechanisms: An Anthropological Analysis Coping Mechanisms of Life Failures

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Published: Sep 2, 2024
DOI: https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i3.1434
Keywords:
Failures setback resilience coping family dynamics adversity self

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Noorulain Bokhari
Department of Anthropology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Aiman Ali Syed
Department of Anthropology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
Humaira Zulfiqar
Lecturer, Department of Gender Studies, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.
https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6460-8798
Rafia Syed
University of Home Economics, Lahore, Pakistan.

Abstract

Background: Failure is a universal experience, but its perceptions and coping mechanisms are deeply influenced by cultural, social, and religious contexts. In Pakistan, societal expectations and familial obligations significantly shape how individuals navigate failure.
Objective: This study aimed to explore the cultural and social dimensions of failure and the coping mechanisms employed by individuals in Pakistan.
Methods: A qualitative ethnographic approach was used, involving in-depth interviews, focus groups, and participant observations with individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds in Islamabad. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes related to perceptions of failure, coping strategies, and resilience.
Results: Findings revealed that failure is often seen as a reflection on family honor, with significant reliance on religious practices and social support networks as coping mechanisms. Gender differences were evident, with women facing dual pressures of professional and domestic roles, while men were primarily burdened by financial responsibilities. Media representations reinforced traditional norms but also provided alternative narratives of resilience.
Conclusion: Cultural, familial, and religious influences play a critical role in shaping perceptions of failure and resilience in Pakistan. Culturally sensitive support mechanisms are needed to address the unique challenges faced by individuals.

Article Details

How to Cite
Bokhari, N., Syed, A. A., Zulfiqar, H., & Rafia Syed. (2024). Life Failures and Their Coping Mechanisms: An Anthropological Analysis: Coping Mechanisms of Life Failures. Journal of Health and Rehabilitation Research, 4(3), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.61919/jhrr.v4i3.1434
Issue
Vol. 4 No. 3 (2024): Volume 4, Issue 3 - July to September 2024
Section
Articles
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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Author Biographies

Noorulain Bokhari, Department of Anthropology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Ms. Noorulail Bokhari is the student at Department of Anthropology, in Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi

Aiman Ali Syed, Department of Anthropology, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Ms. Aiman Ali Syed is currently serving as lecturer at department of Anthropology in Fatima Jinnah Women University Rawalpindi. She has above five years of teaching and research experience 

Humaira Zulfiqar, Lecturer, Department of Gender Studies, Fatima Jinnah Women University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan.

Ms. Humaira Zulfiqar is currently serving as lecturer, at department of Gender Studies. She has above fourteen years of research and teaching experience. Her research interests include poverty, feminization of poverty, domestic violence, Microfinance, women empowerment etc. 

Rafia Syed, University of Home Economics, Lahore, Pakistan.

Ms. Rafia Syed, holding an MPhil in Human Development and Family Studies from the University of Home Economics (2015), is an experienced school teacher with six years of service

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