JOURNAL OF SOCIAL POLICY

Scope & Guideline

Shaping Tomorrow's Social Policies Today

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of JOURNAL OF SOCIAL POLICY with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0047-2794
PublisherCAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESS
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Converge1976, from 1978 to 1984, from 1986 to 2024
AbbreviationJ SOC POLICY / J. Soc. Policy
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressEDINBURGH BLDG, SHAFTESBURY RD, CB2 8RU CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Journal of Social Policy is dedicated to exploring the complexities of social policy and welfare systems, focusing on their development, implementation, and impact on society. It aims to provide a platform for critical analysis and empirical research that addresses contemporary social issues and policy challenges.
  1. Social Policy Analysis:
    The journal primarily focuses on analyzing social policies across different contexts, examining their effectiveness, equity, and implications for various populations.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    It embraces interdisciplinary methodologies, drawing from sociology, economics, political science, and public health to inform social policy discussions.
  3. Impact of Global and Local Contexts:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of understanding how global trends and local contexts shape social policies and their outcomes for individuals and communities.
  4. Focus on Vulnerable Populations:
    There is a consistent focus on marginalized and vulnerable populations, exploring how policies affect their access to resources, opportunities, and well-being.
  5. Evidence-Based Policy Making:
    The journal advocates for evidence-based approaches to policymaking, encouraging research that informs and improves policy decisions.
  6. Critical Perspectives on Welfare:
    It promotes critical perspectives on welfare systems, questioning traditional notions of deservingness and exploring alternative models of social support.
The Journal of Social Policy is currently witnessing an evolution in its thematic focus, with several emerging topics gaining traction. This section outlines these trends, highlighting contemporary issues that are increasingly relevant to social policy discussions.
  1. Digital Transformation and Social Policy:
    There is a growing emphasis on the intersection of digital technologies and social policy, exploring how digital tools can enhance service delivery and access to social support.
  2. Intersectionality in Policy Analysis:
    Emerging themes include the application of intersectional frameworks to social policy, recognizing the interplay of various identities and experiences in shaping policy outcomes.
  3. Responses to Crisis Situations:
    Recent publications focus on social policy responses to crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting adaptive strategies and the role of policy in promoting resilience.
  4. Social Protection for Gig Economy Workers:
    As the gig economy expands, there is an increasing focus on social protection measures for gig workers, addressing their unique challenges and vulnerabilities.
  5. Environmental Sustainability and Social Policy:
    The journal is also exploring the connections between social policy and environmental sustainability, considering how social policies can contribute to eco-social outcomes.
  6. Public Trust and Welfare Systems:
    Research is increasingly focused on the relationship between public trust and the effectiveness of welfare systems, examining how trust impacts policy acceptance and implementation.

Declining or Waning

While the Journal of Social Policy continues to engage with a wide array of themes, certain topics have seen a decline in prominence over recent years. This section highlights these waning themes, providing insight into shifting priorities within the journal's focus.
  1. Traditional Welfare State Models:
    There appears to be a diminishing focus on traditional welfare state models, with fewer studies examining these frameworks in isolation, as newer paradigms and critiques gain traction.
  2. Universal Basic Income:
    Despite previous interest, the discussions surrounding Universal Basic Income have become less frequent, indicating a potential shift towards exploring more integrated social support systems.
  3. Child Welfare Policies:
    While still relevant, the explicit focus on child welfare policies has lessened, possibly due to the broader adoption of intersectional approaches that encompass various demographic factors.
  4. Income Inequality as a Standalone Topic:
    Research that solely addresses income inequality without connecting it to broader social determinants appears to be declining, as the journal shifts towards more holistic analyses.
  5. Labor Market Participation Policies:
    The exploration of labor market participation policies, particularly in isolation from other social policies, has decreased, reflecting a move towards integrated approaches that consider multiple factors affecting employment.

Similar Journals

SOCIAL POLICY & ADMINISTRATION

Exploring the nexus of social work, public policy, and sociology.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0144-5596Frequency: 7 issues/year

SOCIAL POLICY & ADMINISTRATION, published by WILEY, is a leading journal in the fields of social policy and administration, focusing on the intersection of social work, public administration, and sociology. Established in 1967, this UK-based journal has consistently contributed to scholarly discussions and policy-making practices, reflecting its prestigious standing with a Q1 ranking in three key categories: Development, Public Administration, and Social Work for 2023. With an impressive Scopus ranking that places it in the top 7% of its field, it serves as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students aiming to explore contemporary challenges and advancements in social policy. Although it does not currently offer open access, readers can benefit from its rigorous peer-reviewed articles and empirical studies that aim to shape the future of social administration, providing critical insights for effective policy formulation and implementation.

AUSTRALIAN JOURNAL OF SOCIAL ISSUES

Connecting Research with Real-World Issues
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0157-6321Frequency: 4 issues/year

Australian Journal of Social Issues, published by Wiley, is a prestigious academic journal that has been at the forefront of social science research since its inception in 1975. With a focus on sociology and political science, this journal ranks impressively in the 2023 Scopus rankings, positioned at #297 out of 1466 journals, reflecting its significant impact within the field (79th percentile). The journal lacks an open access model, affirming its traditional scholarly avenues while still attracting a wide readership interested in social issues pertinent to Australia and beyond. Covering a diverse range of topics regarding socio-political dynamics, institutional analysis, and community studies, it provides invaluable insights for researchers, professionals, and students keen to explore contemporary social challenges. With a history that converges into the current year, the Australian Journal of Social Issues continues to contribute meaningfully to the scholarly discourse, enhancing our understanding of social constructs and their implications across the globe.

Ethics and Social Welfare

Navigating the Ethical Landscape of Social Welfare
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1749-6535Frequency: 4 issues/year

Ethics and Social Welfare is a premier peer-reviewed journal published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, dedicated to advancing the understanding of ethical issues surrounding social welfare practices and policies. With an ISSN of 1749-6535 and an E-ISSN of 1749-6543, this journal serves as a significant platform for interdisciplinary research, bridging the gaps between philosophy, sociology, and political science. Recognized for its rigorous scholarship, it holds an impressive impact ranking within the Q1 category in Philosophy and Q2 in Sociology and Political Science for 2023, showcasing its influence in these fields. The journal aims to explore critical ethical questions and social justice concerns, providing insights that benefit academics, practitioners, and policymakers alike. Although not open access, it ensures a wide reach and disseminates vital knowledge that shapes contemporary discourse in social welfare ethics. Published in the United Kingdom, Ethics and Social Welfare is essential reading for those invested in fostering an equitable society through informed and ethical practices.

Journal of Public Policy

Fostering Critical Insights in Public Administration
Publisher: CAMBRIDGE UNIV PRESSISSN: 0143-814XFrequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to the Journal of Public Policy, a premier academic publication dedicated to advancing the study and practice of public policy. Published by Cambridge University Press, this journal has established itself as a vital platform for disseminating high-quality research from the fields of public administration, management, and environmental science. With an impressive impact factor and ranking in the top quartiles of both Public Administration (Q1) and Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law (Q2), it fosters critical discussions and innovative perspectives that shape contemporary policy-making. The journal is recognized for its rigorous peer-review process and aims to bridge theory and practice, making it essential for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. With contributions spanning from 1981 to 2024, the Journal of Public Policy remains a cornerstone for those seeking to engage with the dynamic landscape of public policy and governance.

Cuadernos de Trabajo Social

Elevating Standards in Social Work Research and Practice.
Publisher: UNIV COMPLUTENSE MADRID, SERVICIO PUBLICACIONESISSN: 0214-0314Frequency: 2 issues/year

Cuadernos de Trabajo Social, published by UNIV COMPLUTENSE MADRID, SERVICIO PUBLICACIONES, has been a cornerstone of the field of social work since its inception, maintaining an open-access format since 1987. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to social issues, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, practitioners, and students to disseminate innovative ideas and critical analyses that address contemporary challenges in social work. The journal's commitment to maintaining high academic standards assures its readers of the relevance and rigor of its publications, making it an essential resource for those seeking to advance their understanding of social welfare, policy, and practice. With its ISSN 0214-0314 and E-ISSN 1988-8295, Cuadernos de Trabajo Social is dedicated to fostering academic dialogue and enhancing the impact of social work scholarship globally.

Social Policy and Society

Connecting scholars and practitioners for effective social change.
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.

Alternativas. Cuadernos de Trabajo Social

Innovative Insights into Social Sciences and Health
Publisher: UNIV ALICANTEISSN: Frequency: 2 issues/year

Alternativas. Cuadernos de Trabajo Social, published by Universidad de Alicante, serves as a vital platform for scholarly discourse in the fields of Social Sciences, Sociology, and Health, with a focus on emerging social welfare issues. This Open Access journal has been committed to disseminating vital research since 2010, allowing researchers, professionals, and students from around the globe to access invaluable insights into contemporary social challenges. Based in Spain, it has carved out its niche within the academic landscape, achieving Q4 rankings in Health (Social Science) and Q3 in both Social Sciences (Miscellaneous) and Sociology and Political Science for the year 2023. Although the journal's H-index remains undisclosed, its Scopus rankings indicate a growing presence within the academic community, particularly notable is its rank within the 31st percentile for Sociology and Political Science. As the journal continues to converge its efforts towards innovative social solutions from 2019 to 2024, it remains an essential resource for advancing knowledge and fostering informed debate within the critical sectors it addresses.

Trabajo Social Global-Global Social Work

Empowering social change through innovative research.
Publisher: UNIV GRANADA, DEPT TRABAJOISSN: 2013-6757Frequency: 1 issue/year

Trabajo Social Global-Global Social Work is a premier open-access journal published by the University of Granada's Department of Social Work, dedicated to advancing the fields of social work and social welfare on a global scale. With its ISSN 2013-6757 and E-ISSN 2013-6757, this journal has been making significant contributions since its establishment in 2010, emphasizing the importance of accessible research for practitioners, scholars, and students alike. Situated in Granada, Spain, the journal provides a platform for innovative research, critical analyses, and contemporary discussions on global social work practices, policies, and theories. By encouraging collaboration and knowledge exchange among professionals from diverse backgrounds, Trabajo Social Global plays a vital role in shaping social work education and practice around the world. Researchers and practitioners are urged to submit their work to this influential journal, as it continues to foster a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the field of social work today.

Interaccion y Perspectiva

Cultivating Critical Analysis for a Global Audience
Publisher: UNIV ZULIA, FAC CIENCIAS JURIDICAS & POLITICASISSN: 2244-808XFrequency: 2 issues/year

Interaccion y Perspectiva is a distinguished academic journal published by UNIV ZULIA, FAC CIENCIAS JURIDICAS & POLITICAS that serves as a significant platform for interdisciplinary research in the fields of law, political sciences, and social sciences. With its ISSN 2244-808X, this journal aims to promote scholarly dialogue and innovation, providing researchers, professionals, and students with vital insights into contemporary legal and political issues. Although Interaccion y Perspectiva operates under an open access model, facilitating unrestricted access to its valuable content, it is dedicated to maintaining rigorous standards of quality and relevance, thereby contributing meaningfully to the academic community. Based in the vibrant city of Maracaibo, Venezuela, it seeks to engage a global audience and foster an inclusive environment for scholarly debate and critical analysis of legal and political phenomena.

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY

Driving change in health and social care through rigorous research.
Publisher: WILEY-HINDAWIISSN: 0966-0410Frequency: 1 issue/year

HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY, published by WILEY-HINDAWI, is a prominent journal in the fields of health policy, public health, social sciences, and social work, reflecting its broad academic appeal and comprehensive scope. With an impressive categorization in Q1 for Sociology and Political Science and Q2 rankings across various health-related fields, the journal serves as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to advancing knowledge in health and social care domains. Since its inception in 1993, it has consistently promoted high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that tackle contemporary issues, ensuring its relevance and impact in our rapidly evolving society. While the journal is accessible through subscription, it stands out for its commitment to disseminating crucial research findings which are pivotal to establishing effective practices and policies in health and social care. As it approaches its convergence into 2024, the journal continues to be a key player in supporting interdisciplinary dialogue and fostering research that influences real-world change.