SPSC Assistant Director BPS-17 Paper held on 18 January 2024

Correct Answer: B. Beginner

A novice refers to a person who is new or inexperienced in a particular activity, skill, or field of study. Novices are typically beginners or beginners in training, and they lack the experience or expertise that comes with more advanced levels of proficiency. It can be used in various contexts, such as someone who is a novice in a sport, hobby, job, or any other endeavor.

Correct Answer: D. Flatterer

A sycophant is a person who acts obsequiously towards someone in order to gain advantage or favor, often through flattery. Sycophants are typically insincere and excessively praise or fawn over others, especially those in positions of authority or influence, with the intention of ingratiating themselves. The term is often used in a negative sense to describe someone who is overly submissive or fawning in order to manipulate or exploit a situation for personal gain.

Correct Answer: B. Sloppy

Meticulous refers to being very careful, precise, and detailed in the execution of tasks or activities. Someone who is meticulous pays close attention to every detail, ensuring thoroughness and accuracy in their work. This trait is often associated with being extremely thorough and showing great concern for precision and order.

Correct Answer: B. Reveal

To conceal means to hide or keep something out of sight, to prevent it from being discovered or known by others. It involves the act of keeping something secret or not readily apparent, intentionally obscuring or covering it to prevent it from being seen or revealed. Concealing can apply to physical objects, information, emotions, or any other aspect that one wishes to keep hidden or private.

Correct Answer: B. Soothe

To exacerbate means to make a situation, a problem, or a negative condition more severe, intense, or bitter. It involves the act of worsening or aggravating an already difficult or challenging circumstance. When something exacerbates a situation, it increases its negative impact or intensity, making it more difficult to deal with or alleviate.

Correct Answer: D. He can speak French and Spanish Fluently

Let’s analyze each sentence:
A. “The dog laid on the coach.” Correction: “The dog lay on the couch.”
B. “She has sang beautifully.” Correction: “She sang beautifully.”
C. “I has never been to Australia.” Correction: “I have never been to Australia.”
D. “He can speak French and Spanish Fluently.” Correction: “He can speak French and Spanish fluently.”
So, the sentence without error is D. “He can speak French and Spanish fluently.”

Correct Answer: B. The cat’s fur is soft

Let’s analyze each option:
A. “She is allergic to cat’s.” Issue: The use of “cat’s” is incorrect. It should be “cats” without the apostrophe. Correction: “She is allergic to cats.”
B. “The cat’s fur is soft.” Correct: This sentence is grammatically correct. It uses the possessive form “cat’s” appropriately.
C. “We have two dogs and one cats.” Issue: The plural form “cats” should be singular. It should be “one cat” without the “s.” Correction: “We have two dogs and one cat.”
D. “The dog’s are playing in the yard.” Issue: The verb “are” should be “is” to agree with the singular possessive “dog’s.” Correction: “The dog is playing in the yard.”
So, option B, “The cat’s fur is soft,” is the correct sentence

Correct Answer: B. Down

The phrase “couldn’t put it down” is an idiom often used to express how engaging or captivating something is, especially in the context of a book or novel. When someone says they “couldn’t put it down,” it means the material was so interesting or compelling that they were unwilling to stop reading or viewing it.
In the given sentence, the missing word is the direction or location where the person couldn’t put the novel. The correct choice is “B. Down,” as in “I couldn’t put it down.” This phrase implies that the individual was so engrossed in the novel that they didn’t want to stop reading it, emphasizing the captivating nature of the story.

Correct Answer: A. Positive

The sentence “Despite the challenging circumstances, she remained positive” suggests that, despite facing difficulties or adversity, the person mentioned maintained a positive attitude. A. Positive: This is the correct answer. It indicates that she kept a positive outlook despite the challenges.

Correct Answer: A. Quickly

The sentence “The team worked quickly to complete the project on time” indicates that the team put in effort and worked at a fast pace in order to finish the project within the designated time frame. “Quickly” suggests a sense of efficiency and promptness in their work, highlighting their commitment to completing the project in a timely manner.

Correct Answer: C. Women’s Struggle for Political Rights

First Wave Feminism, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, focused primarily on women’s suffrage and political rights. The movement sought to address issues related to legal inequalities, particularly advocating for women’s right to vote and participate in the political process. Therefore, among the given options, “Women’s Struggle for Political Rights” was of greatest concern to First Wave Feminism.

Correct Answer: D. Social System

The term “social system” refers to the complex network of institutions, structures, and relationships that make up a society and govern its functioning. In the context of the construction, presentation, representation, and repression of women in modern society, the social system plays a crucial role in several ways:
Legal System: Laws and regulations can either support or impede women’s rights. Legal frameworks regarding issues like marriage, divorce, property rights, and employment opportunities contribute to the status and treatment of women.
Political System: Government policies and the representation of women in political institutions can impact their visibility, influence, and ability to advocate for their rights and interests.
Economic System: Economic structures influence women’s access to resources, job opportunities, and economic independence. Gender wage gaps and unequal opportunities in the workforce are shaped by economic policies and practices.

Correct Answer: D. More women in all kinds of jobs

“Feminization of labor” refers to:
D. More women in all kinds of jobs
This term describes the trend of an increasing participation of women in various types of employment across different sectors and professions.

Correct Answer: A. Anthropology

Anthropology is the scientific study of humans, including their societies, cultures, development, behavior, and evolution.
It encompasses a holistic approach, examining human biological, cultural, linguistic, and archaeological aspects across time and space.
Anthropologists often conduct fieldwork, which involves direct interaction with and observation of the studied communities or cultures.

Correct Answer: A. Paleolithic Era

“Paleolithic” is derived from Latin where ‘palaeo’ means ‘old’ and ‘lithos’ means ‘stone’. The Paleolithic Era is the period when the hominids first discovered how to make stone tools, and this is why the Paleolithic Period is also called the Old Stone Age.

Correct Answer: A. Adolescence

Adolescence (Option A):
Adolescence is the period of development that typically occurs between the ages of 13 and 17, although the boundaries can vary slightly.
It is a transitional stage of physical and psychological development between childhood and adulthood.
During adolescence, individuals undergo significant changes, including puberty, cognitive development, and the formation of identity.

Correct Answer: C. Surah Baqra and Surah Nisa

he inheritance rights in Islam are primarily outlined in Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2) and Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4) of the Quran. Here’s a brief explanation:
C. Surah Baqra & Surah Nissa:
Surah Al-Baqarah (Chapter 2): This chapter, often referred to as “The Cow,” is the longest chapter in the Quran. It covers a wide range of topics, including guidance on various aspects of life. In verses 180-182, Surah Al-Baqarah provides detailed guidance on inheritance laws, specifying the shares of various relatives.
Surah An-Nisa (Chapter 4): This chapter, titled “The Women,” also addresses various aspects of social, legal, and ethical matters. In verses 11-12, Surah An-Nisa further elaborates on the laws of inheritance, emphasizing the shares of heirs and the principles governing the distribution of the deceased’s estate.
Both of these chapters provide comprehensive guidance on the principles of inheritance, ensuring fair and just distribution among the heirs according to Islamic teachings.

Correct Answer: C. Surah Talaq

he Quranic chapter that specifically addresses the topic of divorce is Surah At-Talaq (Chapter 65).
C. Surah Talaq:
Content: Surah At-Talaq, often translated as “The Divorce,” discusses the rules and procedures related to divorce in Islam.
Key Verses: The chapter contains guidance on the waiting period (iddah), the rights and responsibilities of divorcing parties, and the overall ethical and compassionate approach to divorce.
Context: It emphasizes the importance of dealing with divorce in a considerate and just manner, taking into account the welfare of all parties involved, including any children.
For individuals seeking guidance on divorce within the Islamic framework, Surah Al-Talaq serves as a key source of information and ethical principles in handling such matters.

Correct Answer: A. Advocacy – Based Practice

Advocacy-Based Practice:
Advocacy-Based Practice is a social work approach that focuses on addressing systemic issues, advocating for social change, and promoting justice.
Social workers engaging in advocacy work aim to identify and challenge systemic barriers, inequalities, and injustices that contribute to the challenges faced by individuals or communities.
This approach involves speaking out on behalf of clients or communities, lobbying for policy changes, and working towards the creation of a more equitable and just social system.
While other social work approaches, such as individual counseling and crisis intervention, may focus on addressing immediate needs, advocacy-based practice targets the root causes of social problems to bring about broader and lasting change.

Correct Answer: D. 18 Years

Article 1 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC):
The UNCRC defines a child as anyone below the age of 18 years.
Adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1989, the convention outlines the rights of children and sets the international standard for the protection and well-being of children.
The age limit of 18 reflects the acknowledgment that individuals under this age are considered children and are entitled to special protection and rights to ensure their proper development and safeguard their well-being.

Correct Answer: A. Severe Bleeding, Anemia, Infections, Eclampsia, Unsafe Abortions

The major causes of maternal deaths, as identified by global health organizations and researchers, are typically related to complications during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. The options mentioned in A cover some of these key causes:
A. Severe Bleeding, Anemia, Infections, Eclampsia, Unsafe abortions:
Severe Bleeding (Hemorrhage): Excessive bleeding during childbirth or the postpartum period can lead to maternal mortality.
Anemia: A condition characterized by a lack of red blood cells or hemoglobin, anemia can contribute to maternal mortality, especially if severe.
Infections: Infections, whether occurring during pregnancy, childbirth, or the postpartum period, can lead to complications and maternal deaths.
Eclampsia: Eclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy characterized by seizures. If not managed promptly, it can lead to maternal mortality.
Unsafe Abortions: Complications from unsafe abortions pose a significant risk to maternal health and can result in maternal deaths.

Correct Answer: C. Community Organizing

Community organizing is a macro-level social work practice that involves working with communities and groups to address broader social issues, advocate for social change, and promote social justice. This approach focuses on systemic and structural factors rather than individual concerns. Options A, B, and D (individual counseling, crisis intervention, and case management) are examples of micro-level social work practices, which primarily involve working with individuals rather than entire communities or systems.

Correct Answer: D. March 2012

Correct Answer: B. 1965

Family Planning was formally introduced in Pakistan in 1965 as part of the government’s efforts to address population growth and promote reproductive health. The program aimed to provide information, services, and resources to help individuals and couples plan the number and spacing of their children. This initiative was part of broader public health and development strategies to improve maternal and child health and overall family well-being.

Correct Answer: C. Begum Rana Liaqat Ali Khan

APWA, All Pakistan Women’s Association was founded by Begum Rana Liaqat Ali Khan on 22 February 1949. Begum Rana Liaquat Ali Khan was the wife of Pakistan’s first Prime Minister, Liaquat Ali Khan.

Correct Answer: D. Liberal Theory

The theory that men and women should be treated equally is often associated with liberal feminist theory. Liberal feminism advocates for the equality of men and women within the framework of liberal democracy. It emphasizes individual rights, equal opportunities, and the dismantling of legal and social barriers that limit women’s access to education, employment, and other opportunities.

Correct Answer: C. Family Therapy

Family Therapy is an example of a micro-level social work practice. Family therapy, also known as marriage and family therapy, is a type of psychotherapy that focuses on improving communication and resolving conflicts within families or intimate relationships. It is an intervention at the individual and family level, making it a micro-level practice within the field of social work.

Correct Answer: A. Gender Identity Disorder

Correct Answer: A. Ra’ana Liaqat Ali Khan

In 1952, Ra’ana was the first Muslim woman delegate to the United Nations. In 1954, the Government of Pakistan had appointed her as Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Netherlands, and also was the first woman ambassador of Pakistan.

Correct Answer: B. Loss of Height

B. Loss of Height
One of the most common symptoms associated with the onset of osteoporosis is a loss of height. This is often due to the compression fractures of the vertebrae, resulting in a reduction in the height of the spine.

Correct Answer: A. Gender

A. Gender:
Gender refers to the socially and culturally constructed roles, behaviors, activities, and expectations that a given society considers appropriate for men and women. It encompasses a range of attributes, roles, and norms associated with masculinity and femininity. In summary, while “sex” refers to biological differences, “gender” encompasses the societal expectations and roles associated with being male or female. “Femininity” and “masculinity” are cultural expressions of gender, representing the socially constructed behaviors and traits associated with being a woman or a man, respectively.

Correct Answer: B. Second Wave Feminism

The Second Wave Feminism, which emerged in the 1960s and continued through the 1980s, focused on a broad range of issues including reproductive rights, workplace equality, and violence against women. This wave built on the achievements of the First Wave Feminism and expanded its scope to address a wider array of gender-related issues.

Correct Answer: B. Transphobia

Transphobia is the term used to describe the systematic and widespread discrimination, violence, and exclusion faced by individuals based on their gender identity or expression. This can manifest in various forms, including prejudice, negative stereotypes, harassment, physical violence, and denial of rights to transgender and gender non-conforming individuals. Transphobia is a serious issue that contributes to social inequalities and the marginalization of transgender people.

Correct Answer: A. Gender Socialization

Gender socialization refers to the process through which individuals learn and internalize the values, norms, and behaviors associated with their gender. This process begins early in life and occurs through various social institutions such as family, education, media, and peer groups. Gender socialization influences individuals’ understanding of what is considered appropriate or expected for their gender, shaping their identity, roles, and behaviors within a given society.

Correct Answer: A. Marie Curie

Marie Curie is the first woman to win a Nobel Prize and the only person to have won Nobel Prizes in two different scientific fields. She won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1903 (shared with Pierre Curie and Henri Becquerel) for their work on radioactivity, and later, in 1911, she won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry for her discoveries of the elements radium and polonium. Marie Curie’s groundbreaking contributions to the field of science have left a lasting legacy, and she remains an iconic figure in the history of scientific achievement.

Correct Answer: A. Misogyny

Misogyny is the term for the belief that men are superior to women and should have power and control over them. It involves a deep-seated prejudice and hostility towards women, often manifesting in discriminatory or abusive behavior. Misogyny can be expressed at an individual or societal level and is a form of sexism that negatively impacts women’s rights and well-being.

Correct Answer: A. Toxic Masculinity

Toxic masculinity refers to the belief that men should adhere to traditional masculine norms, such as strength, aggression, dominance, and suppression of emotions. It describes a cultural and social phenomenon where certain expectations placed on men can have harmful effects on their mental and emotional well-being, as well as contribute to negative behaviors and attitudes. The term is used to critique a set of behaviors and attitudes that reinforce traditional gender roles and may be harmful both to men and to those around them.

Correct Answer: A. Heteronormativity

Heteronormativity is the term used to describe the assumption that heterosexual relationships and cisgender identities are the norm or default in society. It involves the belief that heterosexual orientation and gender identity conforming to one’s assigned sex at birth are the expected and “normal” expressions of human sexuality and gender. This concept is often criticized for marginalizing and stigmatizing non-heterosexual and gender nonconforming individuals by positioning their identities and relationships as deviations from the assumed norm.

Correct Answer: A. Rosa Parks

Rosa Parks is the African American civil rights activist known for refusing to give up her seat on a bus in Montgomery, Alabama, in 1955. Her act of civil disobedience sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott, a significant event in the civil rights movement. Rosa Parks became an iconic figure in the struggle for civil rights and is often referred to as the “mother of the civil rights movement” in the United States.

Correct Answer: A. Bell Hooks

“Feminist Theory from Margin to Center” is a book written by bell hooks (pen name of Gloria Jean Watkins), a prominent cultural critic, feminist theorist, and author. The book was first published in 1984 and has become a foundational text in feminist literature.

Correct Answer: D. Gender Norms

Gender norms refer to the expectations and stereotypes associated with femininity and masculinity within a particular society or culture. These norms dictate how individuals are expected to behave, based on their perceived gender. They encompass a range of social expectations, including how people dress, communicate, and express emotions. Gender norms can vary across different cultures and historical periods, and they contribute to the construction of gender roles within societies.

Correct Answer: A. Gender Dysphoria

Gender dysphoria is the term used to describe the distress or discomfort that some individuals experience when their gender identity does not align with their assigned sex at birth. It is important to note that gender dysphoria is a psychological term used in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to describe significant distress related to one’s gender identity. It does not pathologize being transgender but rather acknowledges the emotional challenges that may arise when there is a misalignment between one’s gender identity and assigned sex.

Correct Answer: C. Kimberle Crenshaw

Kimberlé Crenshaw is known for the concept of “Intersectionality.” She introduced this concept to highlight the interconnected nature of various social categories, such as race, gender, class, and sexuality, and how they intersect to create unique and often compounded experiences of discrimination and oppression. Intersectionality was added to the Oxford Dictionary in 2015 with its importance increasingly being recognised in the world of women’s rights.

Correct Answer: B. Sociology

Sociology is the field of study that focuses on the systematic examination of society, social behavior, and social institutions. It explores patterns of human interaction, social relationships, and the structures that shape society. Sociology aims to understand how individuals and groups function within a larger social context, and it examines various aspects of social life, including culture, socialization, social inequality, institutions, and social change.

Correct Answer: A. Culture

The concept that refers to the shared beliefs, values, and practices that a group of people develop is culture. Culture encompasses a group’s way of life, including their language, customs, beliefs, art, and social institutions. It is through culture that individuals within a society learn and share common understandings of the world and how to behave within it. Culture plays a significant role in shaping social identity and influencing social behavior.

Correct Answer: A. Bourgeoisie

According to Karl Marx’s theory of capitalism, the bourgeoisie refers to the social class that owns the means of production. The means of production include things like factories, land, and resources. In a capitalist society, Marx argued that the bourgeoisie, or capitalist class, controls and profits from these means of production, while the proletariat, or working class, sells their labor to the bourgeoisie in exchange for wages. This class division and the relationship between the bourgeoisie and the proletariat form the basis of Marx’s analysis of social conflict within capitalist societies.

Correct Answer: C. Symbolic Interactionist Perspective

The Symbolic Interactionist Perspective in sociology focuses on how individuals interpret and make sense of their social world. This perspective emphasizes the importance of symbols, language, and interactions in shaping individuals’ understanding of society. Symbolic interactionists study how people create and attach meaning to symbols, gestures, and words, and how these meanings influence their social interactions. This perspective is often concerned with the micro-level interactions and everyday behaviors that contribute to the construction of social reality.

Correct Answer: D. Intersectional Perspective

The intersectional perspective in sociology focuses on the ways in which power and social inequality intersect with various dimensions such as race, class, gender, sexuality, and other social categories. This perspective recognizes that individuals may experience multiple forms of oppression or privilege simultaneously, and it highlights the interconnected nature of social identities and structures. The concept of intersectionality was developed to better understand and address the complex and overlapping systems of discrimination and privilege that individuals may face.

Correct Answer: C. Social Justice

Social justice is the social work value that emphasizes fairness and equality without discrimination. Social workers are committed to promoting social justice by advocating for the rights and well-being of all individuals, particularly those who are marginalized or oppressed. This value underscores the importance of addressing systemic inequalities and working towards a more just and inclusive society.

Correct Answer: C. Person Centered Approach

The Person-Centered Approach in social work emphasizes the importance of client self-determination and empowerment. This approach, developed by Carl Rogers, focuses on creating a therapeutic relationship in which the client feels understood, accepted, and empowered to make their own choices. The goal is to support individuals in exploring their feelings, thoughts, and behaviors, and to facilitate personal growth and self-discovery.