AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES

Scope & Guideline

Advancing Insights in Sociology and Politics

Introduction

Welcome to the AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES information hub, where our guidelines provide a wealth of knowledge about the journal’s focus and academic contributions. This page includes an extensive look at the aims and scope of AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES, highlighting trending and emerging areas of study. We also examine declining topics to offer insight into academic interest shifts. Our curated list of highly cited topics and recent publications is part of our effort to guide scholars, using these guidelines to stay ahead in their research endeavors.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0157-6321
PublisherWILEY
Support Open AccessNo
CountryAustralia
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1975 to 1976, from 1980 to 1982, 1984, 1986, from 1989 to 1993, from 1996 to 2024
AbbreviationAUST J SOC ISSUES / Aust. J. Soc. Iss.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address111 RIVER ST, HOBOKEN 07030-5774, NJ

Aims and Scopes

The Australian Journal of Social Issues aims to provide a platform for scholarly discussions on critical social issues affecting Australia, focusing on policies, practices, and community experiences. The journal addresses a broad spectrum of topics related to social welfare, public policy, and community dynamics, with a commitment to highlighting marginalized voices and promoting social justice.
  1. Social Policy and Welfare Reform:
    The journal extensively covers issues related to social policy developments, welfare reforms, and their implications for various demographic groups, particularly vulnerable populations.
  2. Cultural and Racial Dynamics:
    Research focuses on the intersections of culture, race, and social identity, exploring how these factors influence individuals' experiences within Australian society.
  3. Health and Well-being:
    There is a consistent emphasis on mental health, physical health disparities, and the social determinants of health among diverse communities, particularly in the context of systemic inequalities.
  4. Community Engagement and Participation:
    The journal promotes studies on community-driven initiatives, the role of social services, and participatory approaches in addressing social issues and enhancing well-being.
  5. Indigenous Studies:
    A significant focus is placed on Indigenous perspectives, rights, and social justice issues, with attention to policy impacts and community resilience.
  6. Impact of Technology and Digital Services:
    Exploration of how digital tools and services affect social welfare delivery, employment, and community engagement, particularly during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Australian Journal of Social Issues has recently seen a surge in specific themes that reflect contemporary societal challenges and emerging areas of interest among researchers. These themes offer valuable insights into the evolving landscape of social issues in Australia.
  1. Digital Transformation in Social Services:
    There is a growing body of research on the impact of digital technologies on social service delivery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting both opportunities and challenges.
  2. Mental Health and Well-being in Crisis Contexts:
    Studies examining mental health during crises, particularly related to the COVID-19 pandemic, are increasingly prevalent, emphasizing the need for responsive mental health strategies.
  3. Indigenous Rights and Self-Determination:
    A notable trend is the rise in research focused on Indigenous rights, self-determination, and community-led initiatives, reflecting a broader societal recognition of these issues.
  4. Social Justice Movements and Activism:
    Research on social justice movements, including anti-racism and advocacy for marginalized groups, has gained traction, indicating an increased scholarly interest in activism and societal change.
  5. Intersectionality in Social Issues:
    There is a growing emphasis on intersectional approaches to social issues, recognizing how various identities and experiences intersect to shape individuals' realities and challenges.

Declining or Waning

While the journal maintains a diverse range of topics, certain themes have shown signs of declining prominence in recent years. These waning scopes may indicate shifts in research focus or changes in societal priorities.
  1. Traditional Employment Services:
    Research related to conventional employment services and job market dynamics has decreased, possibly due to the growing focus on digital and innovative approaches to employment.
  2. Corporal Punishment and Child Discipline:
    The frequency of studies addressing corporal punishment and traditional child-rearing practices appears to be waning, suggesting a potential shift towards more progressive child welfare perspectives.
  3. Poverty as a Standalone Topic:
    While poverty remains a critical issue, the journal has gradually shifted towards integrating poverty discussions within broader themes of inequality and social justice rather than treating it as a standalone topic.
  4. Rural and Regional Issues:
    There has been a noticeable decline in the exploration of social issues specifically affecting rural and regional communities, possibly overshadowed by urban-centric studies.
  5. Gender Inequality in Isolation:
    Research focused solely on gender inequality, without intersectional considerations, has diminished, reflecting a broader understanding of the complexities involved in social justice topics.

Similar Journals

Kotuitui-New Zealand Journal of Social Sciences Online

Empowering Voices in the Social Science Community
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Kotuitui-New Zealand Journal of Social Sciences Online is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd that has been at the forefront of social science research since its inception. As an Open Access journal since 2019, it aims to disseminate valuable insights and findings to a global audience without any financial barriers. With a robust Q2 quartile ranking in the field of Social Sciences and an impressive 77th percentile ranking in General Social Sciences, the journal serves as an essential platform for scholars, practitioners, and students alike, fostering discussions that address contemporary societal issues. The journal's broad scope encompasses multidisciplinary research, providing a vital resource for those looking to engage with innovative methodologies and diverse perspectives that shape our understanding of social dynamics in New Zealand and beyond. By contributing to this journal, authors can enhance their visibility and impact while enriching the academic community's knowledge base.

Sociologiceskoe Obozrenie

Cultivating innovative thought in the realms of social sciences.
Publisher: NATL RESEARCH UNIV HIGHER SCH ECONOMICSISSN: 1728-192XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Sociologiceskoe Obozrenie is a distinguished open-access journal published by the NATIONAL RESEARCH UNIVERSITY HIGHER SCHOOL OF ECONOMICS in the Russian Federation. Since its inception in 2001, this journal has made significant strides in bringing forth scholarly discussions in the realms of Cultural Studies, Philosophy, Sociology, and Political Science. With its established reputation, evidenced by its Q1 ranking in both Cultural Studies and Philosophy in 2023, and its notable Scopus ranks across disciplines, the journal provides a robust platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike to engage with contemporary sociological and philosophical thought. The journal's commitment to open access promotes the unrestricted dissemination of knowledge, making it an invaluable resource for the global academic community. With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, Sociologiceskoe Obozrenie continues to address pressing societal issues, fostering an environment conducive to critical analysis and innovative research.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY

Advancing community well-being through innovative research.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0091-0562Frequency: 4 issues/year

American Journal of Community Psychology, published by Wiley, is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the field of community psychology through innovative research and practical applications. With an impressive impact factor and categorized in the prestigious Q1 quartiles across several disciplines—including Applied Psychology, Health (social science), Public Health, and Social Work—this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, practitioners, and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of the psychological dimensions of community life. Established in 1973 and continuously thriving until 2024, it provides a critical forum for scholarly articles that explore the intricate interactions between individuals and their communities. The journal’s commitment to high-quality research is evident in its significant Scopus rankings, which place it among the top-tier publications in its field. Although currently not open access, the journal’s repository is rich with essential insights and findings that contribute to the ongoing dialogue in community mental health and well-being.

CHILD WELFARE

Elevating Child Welfare Through Research and Advocacy
Publisher: CHILD WELFARE LEAGUE AMER INCISSN: 0009-4021Frequency: 6 issues/year

CHILD WELFARE is a prominent journal dedicated to advancing research and practice in the field of child welfare, published by the Child Welfare League of America Inc.. Established in 1971, this journal has been a vital resource for professionals, researchers, and policymakers interested in child welfare issues, with a robust impact reflected in its Scopus ranking of #264 out of 915 in the General Medicine category, indicating a strong standing in the field. While it operates under a traditional subscription model, the journal emphasizes the dissemination of evidence-based research and innovative practices that directly inform effective child welfare systems. Despite its discontinued coverage in Scopus after 2015, CHILD WELFARE remains relevant by addressing critical topics such as policy reform, child protection, foster care, and community interventions. As a critical voice in the field, the journal strengthens the understanding and improvement of child welfare practices across various settings, ensuring that the well-being of children remains a priority.

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES

Exploring the Pulse of Society
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0022-4537Frequency: 4 issues/year

JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES, published by Wiley, has long been recognized as a cornerstone in the realm of social sciences, aiming to address critical and emerging issues affecting our society. With an impressive impact factor and a Q1 ranking in the field, this journal is positioned as one of the top venues for researchers and scholars, boasting a rank of #6 out of 275 in General Social Sciences, placing it in the 98th percentile. Established in 1945, it continues to provide a platform for rigorous scholarly discourse, focusing on the intersection of social issues and policy-making, psychological dimensions, and community engagement. The journal features a broad scope, appealing to a diverse audience of professionals and students interested in qualitative and quantitative research. Although it is not an open-access publication, readers can access a wealth of invaluable insights and research findings that contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the social sciences. Join a community dedicated to unraveling and critically examining the pressing social issues of our time through the pages of this esteemed journal.

Social Work in Public Health

Empowering research to address health inequities.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1937-1918Frequency: 7 issues/year

Social Work in Public Health is a leading journal that bridges the gap between social work and public health, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD. With an ISSN of 1937-1918 and an E-ISSN of 1937-190X, this journal has been a vital resource since its inception in 2007, and is set to continue its influence until 2024. Recognized for its significant contributions to the fields of Health Policy, Health (Social Science), Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health, and Social Work, it consistently achieves a Q2 category ranking in several of these critical areas, reflecting its robust impact and relevance in contemporary research. The journal operates without open access restrictions, thereby offering a wide array of valuable research insights to professionals, scholars, and students interested in the interdisciplinary approaches necessary to address health inequities and enhance community well-being. As it continues to gain traction—ranking among the top journals in its fields by Scopus with notable percentiles—it remains an essential platform for disseminating innovative research that shapes policy and practice in social work and public health.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PUBLIC HEALTH

Bridging research and practice to enhance population well-being.
Publisher: AMER PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOC INCISSN: 0090-0036Frequency: 12 issues/year

The American Journal of Public Health, published by the American Public Health Association, stands as a cornerstone in the field of public health and epidemiology since its inception in 1949. With its rigorous peer-review process and a robust commitment to advancing knowledge and research practices, this journal holds a prestigious position in the academic community, as reflected in its 2023 Scopus ranking, where it is placed in the top percentile (93rd) within the categories of Public Health and Environmental and Occupational Health. The journal's focus encompasses a broad spectrum of public health topics, making it essential reading for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to improving population health. Subscribers can access invaluable insights through its collection of innovative studies and reviews, thereby reinforcing the journal's role in shaping public health policy and practice. By bridging research and real-world application, the American Journal of Public Health remains a vital resource for those engaged in the quest to improve health outcomes across diverse communities.

SOCIAL PROBLEMS

Unraveling the fabric of societal challenges with innovative scholarship.
Publisher: OXFORD UNIV PRESS INCISSN: 0037-7791Frequency: 4 issues/year

SOCIAL PROBLEMS, an esteemed journal published by Oxford University Press Inc, stands at the forefront of the sociology and political science fields. Established in 1973, this journal has evolved to become a key platform for advancing theoretical and empirical research on the pressing social issues of our time, spanning various critical topics such as inequality, crime, health disparities, and policy impacts. With an impressive 2023 impact factor placing it in the Q1 category for both sociology and political science, SOCIAL PROBLEMS is ranked #68 out of 1466 journals in its category, representing the top 95th percentile in Scopus rankings. While not an Open Access publication, the journal maintains a commitment to disseminating influential research and scholarship, enabling researchers, professionals, and students to engage with cutting-edge discussions and findings. For those passionate about understanding and addressing social challenges, SOCIAL PROBLEMS offers invaluable insights and a rigorous academic community.

Prisma Social

Advancing interdisciplinary dialogue in social sciences.
Publisher: FUNDACION IS&D INVESTIGACION SOCIAL AVANZADAISSN: 1989-3469Frequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to Prisma Social, an esteemed open-access journal published by the Fundación IS&D Investigación Social Avanzada in Spain since 2008. With its renowned ISSN 1989-3469, this journal serves as a vital resource for scholars and practitioners in the fields of Communication, Education, and Social Sciences. Holding a noteworthy position in the academic community, Prisma Social achieved a Q3 ranking in both Communication and Education categories, and a Q2 ranking in Social Sciences (miscellaneous) as of 2023. This journal is recognized for its commitment to advancing knowledge, evident from its Scopus rankings, where it ranks #118 out of 275 in General Social Sciences, #235 out of 511 in Communication, and #888 out of 1543 in Education. With a convergence of interdisciplinary perspectives and a dedication to accessibility, Prisma Social aims to foster dialogue and innovation, making significant contributions to ongoing discourse in the social sciences. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find invaluable insights that not only enhance their academic pursuits but also inform practice and policy across diverse contexts.

Social Policy and Society

Driving evidence-based discourse in social policy and society.
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 1474-7464Frequency: 4 issues/year

Social Policy and Society, published by Cambridge University Press, serves as a leading platform for scholars and practitioners in the realms of political science, sociology, and social policy. With an impressive impact within its field, the journal is categorized as Q1 in Political Science and International Relations and Q2 in Sociology and Political Science, underscoring its significance in advancing scholarly discourse. Covering a wide array of topics that address contemporary social issues, the journal aims to foster critical conversations around social welfare, policy effectiveness, and societal change, making it an essential resource for researchers and students alike. The journal is accessible to a global audience, although specific open access options may vary. With a robust ranking (Rank #108/706) in Political Science and International Relations and a significant percentile ranking, Social Policy and Society continues to be a vital contributor to evidence-based research and policy formulation in the United Kingdom and beyond.