The Psychological Impact of Political Instability on Youth in Pakistan

Abstract

Political instability has long been a defining characteristic of Pakistan’s socio-political landscape, leading to significant psychological consequences for its youth. This longitudinal study examines how political upheavals, economic crises, and governance failures affect the mental health, emotional well-being, and social behavior of young people in Pakistan. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study tracks changes in anxiety, depression, hopelessness, and political engagement among youth over a decade. The findings reveal a strong correlation between prolonged instability and increased stress levels, loss of trust in institutions, and a decline in civic participation. The study also explores coping mechanisms, such as social activism, migration aspirations, and resilience-building strategies, among Pakistani youth. The results contribute to a deeper understanding of how political uncertainty influences the psychological landscape of emerging generations and offer policy recommendations to mitigate these adverse effects.