JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH

Scope & Guideline

Exploring the intersection of research and practice.

Introduction

Welcome to the JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH 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 JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH, 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
ISSN0148-8376
PublisherROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1978 to 2024
AbbreviationJ SOC SERV RES / J. Soc. Serv. Res.
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 JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH focuses on advancing knowledge and practice within the field of social work and social services. It aims to provide a platform for research that addresses pressing social issues, promotes evidence-based practices, and informs policy development.
  1. Social Work Interventions and Practices:
    The journal emphasizes empirical studies on various social work interventions, exploring their effectiveness across different populations and contexts.
  2. Impact of Social Policies:
    Research that evaluates the implications of social policies on vulnerable populations is a core focus, aiming to inform policy-making and improve service delivery.
  3. Community Engagement and Social Change:
    The journal supports research that examines community-based approaches to social issues, highlighting the role of community engagement in facilitating social change.
  4. Cultural Competence and Diversity:
    There is a consistent focus on the importance of cultural competence in social work practice, addressing how diverse social contexts influence service delivery.
  5. Mental Health and Well-Being:
    The journal includes studies on mental health interventions and their impact on overall well-being, particularly among marginalized groups.
  6. Resilience and Coping Mechanisms:
    Research exploring resilience factors and coping strategies among individuals facing social challenges is a significant contribution to the field.
Recent publications in the JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH reveal emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of social work and social services. These trends indicate areas of growing interest and relevance in the field.
  1. Impact of COVID-19 on Social Services:
    A significant trend is the exploration of the COVID-19 pandemic's impact on social services, including adaptations made by practitioners and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.
  2. Digital Technology in Social Work:
    Research focusing on the integration of digital technology in social work practice is on the rise, highlighting how technology can enhance service delivery and client engagement.
  3. Trauma-Informed Care:
    There is an increasing emphasis on trauma-informed approaches within social work, reflecting a broader understanding of the impact of trauma on individuals and communities.
  4. Youth and Mental Health:
    Emerging themes around youth mental health, particularly in relation to social support systems and interventions, indicate a growing concern for the well-being of younger populations.
  5. Cultural and Social Diversity:
    Research that addresses the experiences of diverse populations, including immigrants and marginalized groups, is increasingly gaining prominence, emphasizing the need for culturally responsive practices.

Declining or Waning

While the JOURNAL OF SOCIAL SERVICE RESEARCH continues to thrive in many areas, certain themes appear to be receiving less attention in recent publications. The following scopes indicate a waning focus that may reflect shifting priorities in the field.
  1. Traditional Social Work Models:
    There seems to be a declining emphasis on traditional social work models, with a shift towards more innovative, evidence-based practices that address contemporary social issues.
  2. Generalized Community Studies:
    Research that broadly addresses community dynamics without specific focus on vulnerable populations or targeted interventions appears to be less prevalent.
  3. Historical Perspectives on Social Work:
    The exploration of historical contexts and their impact on current practices is receiving less attention, potentially overshadowed by immediate contemporary issues.
  4. Quantitative Methods in Isolation:
    While quantitative studies remain important, there is a noticeable decline in studies that employ purely quantitative methods without integrating qualitative insights.
  5. Focus on Single Issues:
    Research addressing single, isolated social issues without considering intersectionality or broader social determinants is becoming less common.

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