International Journal of Social Research Methodology

Scope & Guideline

Unveiling the Power of Methodology in Social Inquiry.

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of International Journal of Social Research Methodology with our comprehensive guidelines detailing its aims and scope. This page is your resource for understanding the journal's thematic priorities. Stay abreast of trending topics currently drawing significant attention and explore declining topics for a full picture of evolving interests. Our selection of highly cited topics and recent high-impact papers is curated within these guidelines to enhance your research impact.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN1364-5579
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1998 to 2024
AbbreviationINT J SOC RES METHOD / Int. J. Soc. Res. Methodol.
Frequency6 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address2-4 PARK SQUARE, MILTON PARK, ABINGDON OX14 4RN, OXON, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The International Journal of Social Research Methodology focuses on the development, application, and evaluation of research methodologies in social science. It encompasses a wide range of qualitative and quantitative approaches, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects of social research.
  1. Methodological Innovation:
    The journal prioritizes the exploration of new and innovative research methods, including mixed methods, participatory approaches, and the use of digital tools in data collection.
  2. Ethical Considerations:
    A significant focus is placed on the ethical dimensions of conducting social research, particularly in sensitive contexts and with marginalized populations.
  3. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    The journal encourages interdisciplinary research, integrating perspectives and methodologies from various fields to enrich social research practices.
  4. Data Quality and Validity:
    Research on enhancing data quality, response rates, and the implications of different data collection methods is a core area of interest.
  5. Social Contextualization:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of situating research methodologies within specific social, cultural, and political contexts, especially in global and comparative studies.
  6. Reflexivity and Researcher Positionality:
    There is a strong emphasis on reflexivity in research practice, highlighting how researchers' identities and positions influence the research process and outcomes.
Recent publications in the International Journal of Social Research Methodology reveal several emerging themes and trends that signify the journal's adaptive focus in response to contemporary challenges in social research.
  1. Digital and Remote Research Methods:
    The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of digital tools and methodologies, such as online surveys and virtual focus groups, which are becoming increasingly prominent in recent research.
  2. Participatory and Co-Creation Approaches:
    There is a notable rise in research that emphasizes participatory methods, where subjects are engaged as co-researchers, reflecting a shift towards more inclusive research practices.
  3. Ethics in Data Collection:
    Emerging themes around the ethics of data collection, particularly concerning vulnerable populations and sensitive topics, are increasingly central to discussions in the journal.
  4. Interdisciplinary Methodological Frameworks:
    A trend towards integrating diverse methodological frameworks from various disciplines is evident, promoting a more comprehensive understanding of social phenomena.
  5. Focus on Marginalized Voices:
    Research highlighting the experiences and perspectives of marginalized groups is gaining momentum, indicating a shift towards social justice-oriented methodologies.
  6. Innovative Data Analysis Techniques:
    There is a growing interest in novel data analysis methods, including machine learning and qualitative data integration, which reflect advancements in analytical capabilities.

Declining or Waning

In the evolving landscape of social research methodology, certain themes have shown signs of decline in prominence within the journal's recent publications. These waning scopes reflect shifts in methodological preferences and research priorities.
  1. Traditional Survey Methods:
    While foundational, traditional survey methods have seen a decline in focus as researchers increasingly explore innovative digital and participatory methods.
  2. Quantitative Dominance:
    There appears to be a reduced emphasis on purely quantitative approaches, as mixed methods and qualitative methodologies gain traction in addressing complex social phenomena.
  3. Generalized Methodologies:
    The journal's recent publications indicate a shift away from generalized methodologies toward more context-specific and tailored research designs.
  4. Standardized Interview Techniques:
    Standardized interview techniques are becoming less central, with a growing interest in adaptive and reflexive interviewing methods that prioritize participant engagement.
  5. Non-Participatory Research Designs:
    Research designs that do not incorporate participant input or co-creation are less frequently highlighted, reflecting a broader movement towards participatory methodologies.

Similar Journals

Qualitative Sociology

Cultivating Knowledge, Inspiring Qualitative Excellence
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0162-0436Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative Sociology, published by SPRINGER, is a leading journal in the fields of sociology and political science, holding a prestigious Q1 ranking in the 2023 category quartiles. With an ISSN of 0162-0436 and an E-ISSN of 1573-7837, this journal has been a vital resource for qualitative research since its inception in 1978. It serves as a platform for critical scholarship, illuminating diverse sociological perspectives and methodologies, and is vital for those engaged in qualitative inquiry. While it does not offer open access, Qualitative Sociology remains influential with its rigorous peer-review process and substantial impact factor. Its prominence is reflected in its Scopus ranking at #331 out of 1466 in Social Sciences, placing it within the top 77th percentile. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find this journal an indispensable tool for advancing their understanding of societal dynamics and advancing qualitative methodologies.

Annual Review of Statistics and Its Application

Uncovering Trends and Transformations in Statistical Methodologies
Publisher: ANNUAL REVIEWSISSN: 2326-8298Frequency: 1 issue/year

Welcome to the Annual Review of Statistics and Its Application, a premier journal dedicated to advancing the field of statistics and its applications. Published by Annual Reviews, this interdisciplinary journal offers comprehensive reviews that synthesize the latest developments and methodologies in statistics, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. With an impressive impact factor and ranking in the Q1 quartile in both Statistics and Probability and in Statistics, Probability and Uncertainty for 2023, the journal stands out as a leading platform for scholarly discourse and innovation. The Scopus rankings further reflect its prestige, placing it at the forefront of the Decision Sciences and Mathematics categories. As the field continues to evolve, the Annual Review of Statistics and Its Application aims to bridge theoretical insights and practical applications through top-notch articles, ensuring that our readers are well-informed about significant advancements and emerging trends from 2014 to 2024.

Research Ethics

Empowering Researchers to Uphold Ethical Standards.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1747-0161Frequency: 4 issues/year

Research Ethics is a leading journal published by SAGE Publications Inc that fosters scholarly discourse at the intersection of ethical considerations and research practices. As an Open Access platform since 2018, it ensures that critical insights on ethical dilemmas faced by researchers are freely available to a global audience, significantly enhancing its reach and impact. With an impressive impact factor reflected in its Q1 and Q2 rankings in Philosophy and Education respectively for 2023, this journal occupies a vital space for researchers and professionals aiming to navigate the complex ethical landscape of contemporary research. As indicated by its strong Scopus rankings, falling into the 95th percentile in Arts and Humanities (Philosophy) and 77th percentile in Social Sciences (Education), Research Ethics is essential for anyone interested in contributing to or understanding ethical practices in research. The journal encompasses a broad scope, encouraging submissions that explore diverse aspects of research ethics, promoting high standards and integrity across disciplines. Join a community dedicated to advancing ethical research methodologies and contributing meaningfully to the dialogue that shapes the future of moral practices in academia.

Qualitative Research Journal

Transforming Perspectives with Qualitative Analysis
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1443-9883Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative Research Journal is a leading academic publication dedicated to the exploration and advancement of qualitative methodologies and insights within the fields of Education and Social Sciences. Published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd in the United Kingdom, this journal plays a crucial role in fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation, with a commendable impact factor that underscores its significance in the academic community. Holding a prestigious Q2 category ranking in both Education and Social Sciences as of 2023, the journal provides a platform for high-quality research that emphasizes the richness of qualitative data. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will benefit from its diverse contributions and comprehensive coverage of emerging trends in qualitative analysis. The journal is committed to enhancing scholarly discourse, making it a vital resource for anyone engaged in qualitative research.

QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH

Transforming Perspectives in Qualitative Health Research
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1049-7323Frequency: 14 issues/year

QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH is a pivotal journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, specializing in the dynamic field of qualitative research within public health and health services. With an ISSN of 1049-7323 and an E-ISSN of 1552-7557, this esteemed publication has secured a prominent position in academic discourse, as evidenced by its Q1 ranking in the 2023 category of Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health and a Scopus rank of #100 out of 665, placing it in the 85th percentile. Since its inception in 1991, the journal has fostered innovative methodologies and diverse perspectives, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to understanding the complexity of health experiences and outcomes. Although it does not feature open access, QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH remains committed to advancing knowledge and scholarly dialogue, ensuring that significant contributions in qualitative methodologies are readily available to a global academic audience.

Scientific Data

Driving Progress in Research with Open Data Solutions
Publisher: NATURE PORTFOLIOISSN: Frequency: 1 issue/year

Scientific Data, published by NATURE PORTFOLIO, is a premier open-access journal that has been providing researchers with a platform to share high-quality data across various interdisciplinary fields since 2014. With its E-ISSN 2052-4463, the journal has established itself in the United Kingdom and gained global recognition. As of 2023, it has achieved remarkable quartile rankings, being placed in Q1 across several categories including Computer Science Applications, Education, Information Systems, Library and Information Sciences, and Statistics and Probability. These rankings highlight its pivotal role in advancing data sharing and methodologies, which are critical to fostering innovation and collaboration in research. The journal’s strong Scopus rankings, with top positions in Mathematics, Decision Sciences, and Social Sciences reinforce its importance as a key resource for academics, professionals, and students seeking to utilize and contribute to the rich ecosystem of scientific data. With open access options, Scientific Data empowers a diverse audience to engage with the latest research findings and datasets, ensuring that invaluable insights are accessible to all.

Behavior and Social Issues

Advancing Insights into Behavioral Studies and Social Challenges
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 1064-9506Frequency: 1 issue/year

Behavior and Social Issues, published by Springer, is a prominent academic journal dedicated to advancing the understanding of behavioral studies and social concerns. With an ISSN of 1064-9506 and an E-ISSN of 2376-6786, this journal serves as a critical platform for researchers, professionals, and students who are committed to exploring the intricate dynamics of human behavior and the social issues arising in contemporary society. Although currently not designated as Open Access, the journal aims to disseminate high-quality empirical research, theoretical advancements, and insightful reviews that contribute to the field's development. Located in New York, with a reputation for rigor and academic excellence, Behavior and Social Issues is invaluable for anyone seeking to engage with pressing social topics through a scientific lens.

Methodology-European Journal of Research Methods for the Behavioral and Social Sciences

Bridging theory and practice in behavioral and social science methodologies.
Publisher: PSYCHOPENISSN: 1614-1881Frequency: 4 issues/year

Methodology-European Journal of Research Methods for the Behavioral and Social Sciences is a premier, open access journal dedicated to advancing the field of research methods within the behavioral and social sciences. Published by PSYCHOPEN, this journal plays a vital role in disseminating innovative methodologies and rigorous research designs to foster scholarly communication among researchers, professionals, and students. With an impact factor reflecting its credibility and relevance—categorized within the Q2 in Psychology and Q1 in Social Sciences in 2023—this journal ensures that contemporary scientific practices are at the forefront of academic discourse. With its origins dating back to 2005, Methodology is committed to providing free and unfettered access to its contributions, encouraging wide-reaching application and replication of research findings. Located in Trier, Germany, the journal is a cornerstone for those aiming to enhance their research skills and appreciate the nuanced complexities involved in behavioral and social investigations.

Field Methods

Illuminating the Path of Methodological Excellence in Social Sciences.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1525-822XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Field Methods, an esteemed journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, specializes in the realm of Anthropology, presenting innovative research methodologies that shape contemporary anthropological inquiry. With an impressive impact factor reflected in its 2023 Scopus ranking as #81 out of 502 in the field of Social Sciences, this Q1 journal serves as a critical platform for academics, professionals, and students committed to advancing ethnographic research and methodological discourse. The journal, established in 1989, has embraced an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging submissions that explore both qualitative and quantitative methods across diverse contexts. While access options are not open access, subscribers benefit from comprehensive insights into the methodologies that underpin anthropological studies. As Field Methods approaches its converged years until 2024, it continues to play a pivotal role in informing and inspiring the next generation of scholars and practitioners aiming to enrich our understanding of cultures and communities worldwide.

SOCIOLOGICAL METHODS & RESEARCH

Shaping the future of sociology through rigorous research practices.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0049-1241Frequency: 4 issues/year

Sociological Methods & Research (ISSN: 0049-1241, E-ISSN: 1552-8294) is a premier academic journal published by SAGE Publications Inc. in the United States, dedicated to advancing the field of sociology through the dissemination of rigorous methodological strategies. With an impressive impact factor and recognized as a Q1 journal in both Sociology and Political Science, it holds a prestigious position in the Scopus rankings, placing 7th out of 1,466 in Sociology and Political Science and 5th out of 604 in miscellaneous social sciences. The journal, which has been in continuous publication since 1972 and will extend through 2024, serves as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students aiming to explore innovative methodologies and empirical research in sociology. Although it is not an open-access journal, it remains highly influential, making significant contributions to sociological scholarship and shaping contemporary discourse in the social sciences.