Qualitative Research Journal

Scope & Guideline

Connecting Minds Through Qualitative Dialogue

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the scholarly insights of Qualitative Research Journal 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
ISSN1443-9883
PublisherEMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited Kingdom
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2006 to 2024
AbbreviationQUAL RES J / Qual. Res. J.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressFloor 5, Northspring 21-23 Wellington Street, Leeds, W YORKSHIRE LS1 4DL, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The Qualitative Research Journal focuses on exploring the complexities of human experience through qualitative methodologies. Its commitment to innovative research approaches and diverse perspectives is evident in its wide-ranging themes, which address social, cultural, and educational phenomena.
  1. Qualitative Methodologies:
    The journal emphasizes a variety of qualitative research methodologies, including phenomenology, ethnography, autoethnography, and narrative inquiry. This focus allows for deep exploration of subjective experiences and social contexts.
  2. Social Justice and Equity:
    A core aim of the journal is to address issues of social justice, equity, and representation. Many studies reflect a commitment to understanding the lived experiences of marginalized communities and advocating for their voices.
  3. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    The journal encourages interdisciplinary research, integrating insights from education, sociology, psychology, and cultural studies. This approach enriches the qualitative inquiry by bringing diverse theoretical frameworks and methodologies.
  4. Reflexivity and Positionality:
    Reflexivity is a significant theme in the journal, with many papers discussing the researcher's positionality and its impact on data collection and interpretation. This focus enhances the rigor and ethical considerations of qualitative research.
  5. Innovative Data Collection Techniques:
    The journal showcases innovative data collection methods, such as visual methodologies, poetic inquiry, and digital storytelling. These methods are designed to capture complex narratives and foster participant engagement.
The Qualitative Research Journal is currently experiencing a surge in interest in several emerging themes that reflect the evolving landscape of qualitative inquiry. These themes are indicative of the journal's responsiveness to contemporary societal issues and methodological innovations.
  1. Decolonizing Methodologies:
    There is a notable trend towards decolonizing research methodologies, with increasing publications focusing on Indigenous perspectives and methodologies. This shift highlights the importance of culturally responsive research practices.
  2. Digital and Online Research Methods:
    The rise of digital platforms has led to increased exploration of online qualitative research methods. Studies addressing challenges and innovations in conducting qualitative research in virtual environments are becoming increasingly prevalent.
  3. Mental Health and Well-being:
    Research focusing on mental health, particularly in the context of youth and marginalized populations, is gaining traction. This reflects a broader societal recognition of mental health issues and the need for qualitative insights into personal experiences.
  4. Participatory and Collaborative Approaches:
    Emerging themes in participatory action research and collaborative methodologies indicate a growing emphasis on co-creating knowledge with participants, fostering empowerment and engagement in the research process.
  5. Intersectionality and Identity Studies:
    The journal is seeing a rise in studies that examine the complexities of identity through an intersectional lens, addressing how various social categories (e.g., race, gender, sexuality) interact to shape lived experiences.

Declining or Waning

While the journal continues to thrive in many areas, certain themes have seen a decline in prominence over recent years. This section highlights those diminishing focuses, which may reflect shifting priorities within the qualitative research community.
  1. Traditional Quantitative Methods:
    There appears to be a waning interest in traditional quantitative methods within the journal, as qualitative researchers increasingly favor qualitative approaches that emphasize depth over breadth.
  2. Purely Theoretical Discussions:
    Papers that focus solely on theoretical discussions without empirical evidence seem to be declining. The journal is prioritizing studies that integrate theory with practical applications and real-world implications.
  3. Generalized Studies of Large Populations:
    Research that attempts to generalize findings across large populations without a qualitative lens is becoming less frequent. The journal is moving towards more nuanced, context-specific studies that reflect individual experiences.
  4. Historical Perspectives without Contemporary Relevance:
    There is a noticeable decrease in studies that emphasize historical perspectives without connecting them to current qualitative research practices or contemporary issues, indicating a shift towards more relevant and immediate inquiries.
  5. Methodological Comparisons:
    The focus on comparing qualitative methodologies without substantial qualitative findings has decreased. The journal is favoring original qualitative research that contributes new insights rather than meta-analyses.

Similar Journals

Qualitative Psychology

Elevating qualitative inquiry to shape the future of psychology.
Publisher: AMER PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSOCISSN: 2326-3601Frequency: 3 issues/year

Qualitative Psychology is a premier scholarly journal published by the American Psychological Association, dedicated to advancing the field of qualitative research within psychology. With an ISSN of 2326-3601 and an E-ISSN of 2326-3598, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for both researchers and practitioners since its inception in 2014. The journal focuses on illuminating the complexities of human experience through qualitative methodologies, contributing significantly to its category's impact factor as evidenced by its Q1 rank in Psychology (Miscellaneous) and placing it in the top 11% according to Scopus, where it ranks #24 out of 216. Although it is not an open access journal, Qualitative Psychology provides a platform for innovative and rigorous scholarship that fuels academic discourse and enhances understanding in diverse psychological contexts. Through its publication of high-quality, peer-reviewed articles, this journal plays an essential role in shaping contemporary qualitative inquiry and is an invaluable resource for students and professionals aiming to deepen their insights in the psychology landscape.

International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being

Advancing health insights through qualitative exploration.
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1748-2623Frequency: 1 issue/year

International Journal of Qualitative Studies on Health and Well-Being is a premier academic platform, published by Taylor & Francis Ltd, that has been dedicated to advancing the field of health and well-being through qualitative research since its inception in 2006. With an Open Access model, the journal ensures that vital research findings are accessible to a global audience, fostering greater collaboration and innovation among scholars, practitioners, and students alike. Recognized for its robust impact within the academic community, it boasts a commendable Q1 classification in Fundamentals and Skills and ranked #3 in Nursing related to this category, demonstrating its commitment to publishing high-quality and impactful research. Additionally, the journal holds strong positions in areas such as Gerontology and Health Policy, making it a critical resource for those studying the multifaceted aspects of health. With a focus on ethical considerations and legal aspects of healthcare, it invites submissions that can contribute to the ongoing dialogue surrounding health policies and practices. Situated in Oxon, England, the journal's multidisciplinary approach is essential for guiding research that will influence future practices in the healthcare sector.

Qualitative Research in Sport Exercise and Health

Innovating Qualitative Research for Health and Physical Therapy
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2159-676XFrequency: 5 issues/year

Qualitative Research in Sport, Exercise, and Health, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, stands as a premier academic journal in the interdisciplinary exploration of health, physical therapy, and social psychology. With an impressive Q1 ranking across multiple categories including Health (social science), Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation, and Social Psychology, this journal is dedicated to advancing qualitative methodologies and frameworks within the realm of sport and exercise sciences. The journal has been continuously publishing since 2011 and embraces a global perspective from its base in the United Kingdom, fostering scholarly dialogue that is essential for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. Although it operates under a traditional subscription model, the journal's significant impact, demonstrated by its top-tier rankings and commendable Scopus positioning—in the 97th percentile for Physical Therapy—ensures it remains a vital resource for insights into the qualitative aspects of sport, exercise, and health, contributing meaningfully to evidence-based practice and policy development in these critical fields.

Qualitative Research in Psychology

Exploring the depths of psychology through qualitative research.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1478-0887Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative Research in Psychology is a premier journal dedicated to advancing the field of qualitative research within psychology. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this influential journal has established itself as a pivotal resource since its inception in 2004 and is set to continue its impactful journey through 2024. With an impressive Q1 ranking in the miscellaneous psychology category, it ranks #6 out of 216 in general psychology according to Scopus, placing it within the top 3% of its field. The journal's commitment to promoting qualitative methodologies makes it an essential platform for researchers, professionals, and students aiming to explore the complexities of human behavior and mental processes. Though it currently does not offer open access options, the journal provides critical insights and rigorous scholarly discussions that enrich the academic community's understanding of qualitative approaches. As a vital contributor to the psychological sciences, Qualitative Research in Psychology encourages interdisciplinary dialogue, ensuring that diverse voices and perspectives are included in the ongoing research discourse.

Qualitative Research in Accounting and Management

Shaping practices with rigorous qualitative analysis.
Publisher: EMERALD GROUP PUBLISHING LTDISSN: 1176-6093Frequency: 4 issues/year

Qualitative Research in Accounting and Management is a leading academic journal published by Emerald Group Publishing Ltd, dedicated to advancing the fields of accounting and management through rigorous qualitative methodologies. With an ISSN of 1176-6093 and an E-ISSN of 1758-7654, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students alike, promoting innovative and insightful contributions that shape current and future practices. Positioned in the Q2 category for both Accounting and Business and International Management as of 2023, it ranks impressively within its fields, holding a percentile of 70th in Accounting and 62nd in Business. This journal not only provides a platform for in-depth qualitative studies but also fosters interdisciplinary dialogue on emerging challenges and theoretical developments. By publishing high-quality research, it aims to bridge the gap between academic inquiry and practical application, making it an essential reference for those engaged in the exploration of qualitative dimensions within the business and accounting landscapes.

Departures in Critical Qualitative Research

Advancing Critical Perspectives in Communication and Linguistics
Publisher: UNIV CALIFORNIA PRESS, JOURNALS DIVISSN: Frequency: 4 issues/year

Departures in Critical Qualitative Research, published by University of California Press, is an influential journal dedicated to advancing knowledge within the realms of Communication and Linguistics and Language. With its commitment to exploring the complexities and nuances of qualitative research, this journal has quickly established itself as a vital resource for scholars and professionals alike. Although it currently resides in the fourth quartile in Communication and the third quartile in Linguistics, its notable Scopus rankings, including a 64th percentile in Language and Linguistics, highlight its growing significance in the academic discourse. Covering a converged period from 2019 until 2024, the journal seeks to foster innovative and critical perspectives on qualitative methodologies, offering invaluable insights that address contemporary social issues. Access to its content is available to a wide audience, contributing to the journal's reputation as a beacon for those engaged in critical qualitative research.

Qualitative Report

Navigating the Landscape of Cultural and Social Understanding
Publisher: NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVISSN: 1052-0147Frequency: 12 issues/year

The Qualitative Report, published by NOVA Southeastern University, is a leading open-access journal dedicated to the rich field of qualitative research. Since its inception in 1990, the journal has emerged as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students interested in cultural studies, education, and social psychology. With a notable impact factor reflected in its 2023 quartile rankings—Q1 in Cultural Studies, Q2 in Education, and Q3 in Social Psychology—the journal showcases cutting-edge research and diverse methodologies that advance understanding within these areas. Its Scopus rankings further underscore its influence, positioning it within the top 10th percentile in Cultural Studies and among the top tiers in Education and Social Psychology. The Qualitative Report is based in the United States and provides an innovative platform for disseminating impactful qualitative studies, reinforcing its commitment to fostering dialogue and promoting visibility in the academic community.

Emotion Space and Society

Transforming Perspectives on Emotion and Community
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 1755-4586Frequency: 4 issues/year

Emotion Space and Society, published by ELSEVIER SCI LTD, is an esteemed academic journal dedicated to advancing the fields of psychology, particularly in the domains of experimental and cognitive psychology, as well as social psychology. With an ISSN of 1755-4586 and an E-ISSN of 1878-0040, this journal has made significant contributions to understanding the complexities of emotional experiences and their impact on social dynamics since its inception in 2008. Currently holding a 2023 ranking of Q2 in both Experimental and Cognitive Psychology and Social Psychology, it is recognized for its ongoing commitment to excellence—positioning it at the 62nd percentile in Social Psychology and 59th percentile in Experimental and Cognitive Psychology according to Scopus rankings. Although unavailable as an Open Access journal, submissions to Emotion Space and Society engage a global readership, fostering critical discussions around emotional phenomena that resonate across interdisciplinary boundaries. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find a wealth of knowledge and a platform for innovative exploration within the pages of this influential journal.

AREA

Fostering Dialogue in Geography and Environmental Policy
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0004-0894Frequency: 4 issues/year

AREA, with ISSN 0004-0894 and E-ISSN 1475-4762, is a premier open access journal published by Wiley since 2018, and situated in the heart of the United Kingdom. Recognized as a Q1 journal in Geography, Planning, and Development for 2023, it ranks impressively at #154 out of 821 in its category on Scopus, placing it in the 81st percentile. This esteemed journal, which has been a prominent venue for scholarly discourse since its inception in 1976, invites original research articles, reviews, and commentary that advance understanding and contribute significantly to the fields of geography and urban planning. As an open access journal, AREA ensures that high-quality research is readily available to a global audience, thus facilitating knowledge exchange and encouraging innovative approaches to geographical questions. Researchers, professionals, and students alike will find AREA to be an invaluable resource for cutting-edge insights and compelling discussions that shape the future of spatial analysis and environmental policy.

QUALITATIVE INQUIRY

Uncovering Rich Narratives in Qualitative Research
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 1077-8004Frequency: 10 issues/year

QUALITATIVE INQUIRY is a leading academic journal published by SAGE Publications Inc, dedicated to advancing the field of qualitative research within the domains of Anthropology and Social Sciences. With an impressive Q1 ranking in both categories for 2023, the journal holds a prominent position in the academic community, recognized for its high-quality contributions and influential research. The journal, available in print with the ISSN 1077-8004 and electronically with the E-ISSN 1552-7565, showcases innovative methodologies and critical analyses that deepen our understanding of social phenomena. Researchers, professionals, and students will find a wealth of knowledge as the journal publishes insightful studies that push the boundaries of qualitative inquiry. Situated in the vibrant academic landscape of the United States and operating from its headquarters in Thousand Oaks, CA, QUALITATIVE INQUIRY plays a crucial role in shaping discussions and fostering new perspectives in the social sciences, underscoring its importance in the scholarly community.