RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences

Scope & Guideline

Connecting scholars and practitioners for impactful knowledge sharing.

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences 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
ISSN2377-8253
PublisherRUSSELL SAGE FOUNDATION
Support Open AccessYes
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 2015 to 2024
AbbreviationRSF-RUS SAGE J SOC S / RSF-Russ. Sage J. Soc. Sci.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address112 EAST 64TH STREET, NEW YORK, NY 10065

Aims and Scopes

RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences focuses on advancing the understanding of social sciences through rigorous empirical research, drawing on a diverse array of methodologies and theoretical frameworks.
  1. Social Inequality and Justice:
    The journal emphasizes research on various dimensions of social inequality, including race, class, gender, and health disparities, contributing to the discourse on social justice and equity.
  2. Impact of Policy and Institutional Structures:
    A significant focus is placed on how policies and institutional frameworks shape social experiences, especially among marginalized groups, highlighting the interplay between policy implementation and social outcomes.
  3. Qualitative and Mixed-Methods Research:
    The journal encourages qualitative research methodologies alongside quantitative approaches, fostering a richer understanding of social phenomena through in-depth narratives and case studies.
  4. Community and Family Dynamics:
    Research on family structures, caregiving, and community responses to crises (like the COVID-19 pandemic) is prevalent, illustrating the importance of social support systems in navigating challenges.
  5. Cultural and Moral Frameworks:
    The journal explores how cultural narratives and moral frameworks influence societal behaviors, attitudes, and community cohesion, providing insights into the complexities of social interactions.
The recent publications in RSF indicate a shift towards several emerging themes that reflect current societal challenges and research priorities in the social sciences.
  1. Health Disparities and COVID-19:
    There is a marked increase in research addressing health disparities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the urgency of understanding social suffering and institutional responses during crises.
  2. Reparations and Racial Justice:
    The theme of reparations, particularly related to Black Americans, has gained significant traction, highlighting a growing interest in addressing historical injustices and promoting racial equity.
  3. Administrative Burdens and Inequality:
    Emerging research on administrative burdens—how bureaucratic processes impact access to resources—has become a focal point, emphasizing the need for policy reform to alleviate systemic inequities.
  4. Intersectionality in Social Research:
    There is an increasing trend towards intersectionality, examining how overlapping social identities affect individuals' experiences and outcomes, particularly in the context of race, gender, and socioeconomic status.
  5. Impact of Technology on Labor and Society:
    Research exploring the implications of technology, gig work, and platform economies on social dynamics and labor markets is emerging, indicating a response to the changing nature of work and its social implications.

Declining or Waning

While RSF covers a broad range of social science topics, certain themes have seen a decline in focus over recent years, reflecting changing priorities and emerging research interests.
  1. Historical Analyses of Segregation:
    Though historically significant, the focus on segregation and its historical implications has waned, possibly due to a shift towards more contemporary and actionable research on inequality and social justice.
  2. Urban vs. Rural Disparities:
    Research contrasting urban and rural disparities has decreased, potentially as the journal's emphasis has shifted towards broader systemic issues affecting racial and economic inequalities across various contexts.
  3. Monetary Sanctions and Legal Systems:
    Topics specifically addressing the nuances of monetary sanctions within legal frameworks appear less frequently, indicating a potential pivot to broader discussions on systemic inequality and social policy.

Similar Journals

Journal of Family Theory & Review

Cultivating knowledge in family theory and practice.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1756-2570Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of Family Theory & Review, published by WILEY, is a leading academic journal that focuses on advancing the interdisciplinary study of family dynamics and relationships. With its ISSN 1756-2570 and E-ISSN 1756-2589, this journal has established a robust reputation in the fields of social sciences, health (social science), and social psychology, evidenced by its high standing in various quartiles and impressive rankings in Scopus. As of 2023, it ranks Q1 in Health (social science) and Social Psychology, showcasing its critical role in scholarly discourse. Researchers, professionals, and students will find the journal's commitment to fostering theoretical and empirical advancements essential for understanding contemporary family issues. Despite being a subscription-based publication, the Journal of Family Theory & Review offers rich insights and rigorous peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to the body of knowledge in family studies. For those passionate about the complexities of family life, this journal is an invaluable resource.

Journal of Human Development and Capabilities

Connecting disciplines to enhance human capabilities.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1945-2829Frequency: 4 issues/year

The Journal of Human Development and Capabilities, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a prestigious platform dedicated to advancing the discourse around human development and capabilities. With its ISSN 1945-2829 and E-ISSN 1945-2837, this journal focuses on interdisciplinary research that combines insights from anthropology, development studies, and social sciences, which are highlighted by its notable Q1 ranking in both field categories as of 2023. As a vital resource for researchers, professionals, and students, it offers a rigorous examination of theories, frameworks, and empirical studies that shape our understanding of human potential and well-being. Although it does not operate on an open access model, readers can access its significant contributions from libraries and institutions. Covering a converged period from 2009 to 2024, the journal consistently ranks highly in Scopus, currently positioned at #84 out of 306 in Social Sciences Development, marking it as a leading source for innovative and impactful research.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY

Empowering Scholars to Shape Economic and Social Discourse.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0002-9246Frequency: 5 issues/year

American Journal of Economics and Sociology is a distinguished peer-reviewed journal published by Wiley that serves as a vital platform for researchers and professionals in the fields of economics and sociology. With a publication history spanning from 1941 to the present, this journal covers a diverse range of topics, promoting interdisciplinary research and fostering a deeper understanding of social and economic phenomena. Although it operates on a traditional subscription model, its contributions are widely recognized, earning it an impactful position within the academic community, reflected in its current 2023 Scopus Rankings— positioned in the top quartile for Sociology and Political Science and notable recognition in Economics and Econometrics. The journal is based in the United Kingdom and aims to enhance discourse and collaboration across economic and sociological domains, making it an essential resource for students, educators, and policymakers alike.

Social Justice Research

Exploring Multidisciplinary Perspectives on Social Justice
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0885-7466Frequency: 4 issues/year

Social Justice Research, published by SPRINGER, is a premier academic journal dedicated to the exploration of social justice issues spanning multiple disciplines, including anthropology, law, sociology, and political science. Established in 1987, the journal plays a crucial role in advancing scholarly dialogue and understanding of social justice themes, addressing contemporary challenges and theoretical frameworks. With an exceptional Q1 ranking in major categories and impressive Scopus rankings—#115 in Law and #64 in Anthropology—this journal underscores its significance in contributing to a deeper understanding of equity and justice in society. Although it operates on a traditional access model, it serves as an essential resource for researchers and professionals seeking rigorous analyses and innovative perspectives in these critical fields. As the journal continues through its converged years into 2024, it remains committed to fostering an environment that reflects diversity, inclusivity, and impactful scholarship, making it a vital platform for both seasoned academics and emerging scholars motivated to address pressing social issues.

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 PROBLEMS

Transforming discourse on critical social problems through empirical study.
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.

Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research

Driving change with evidence-based research.
Publisher: UNIV CHICAGO PRESSISSN: 2334-2315Frequency: 4 issues/year

Journal of the Society for Social Work and Research, published by University of Chicago Press, serves as a vital platform for scholarly examination in the fields of social sciences, sociology, and political science. With an ISSN of 2334-2315 and E-ISSN of 1948-822X, this journal has established itself as a reputable source of innovative research, currently holding a notable Q2 ranking in both categories for 2023. The journal focuses on producing high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that advance knowledge and practice in social work and related fields, addressing pressing societal issues through a scientific lens. Operating from its home at 1427 E 60TH ST, CHICAGO, IL 60637-2954, the journal is an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students dedicated to fostering social change and contributing to the welfare of individuals and communities. With a strong commitment to advancing empirical and theoretical frameworks, the journal is poised to continue its significant impact on the social work research landscape through 2024 and beyond.

SOCIAL INDICATORS RESEARCH

Pioneering Research on Social Indicators
Publisher: SPRINGERISSN: 0303-8300Frequency: 15 issues/year

SOCIAL INDICATORS RESEARCH is a prominent peer-reviewed journal published by SPRINGER, focused on delivering high-quality research within the fields of social sciences, including sociology, political science, and developmental psychology. With a history spanning from 1974 to 2024, this journal has established itself as a vital resource for scholars interested in the multifaceted aspects of social indicators, quality of life, and measurement of subjective well-being. The journal boasts an impressive Q1 quartile ranking in Arts and Humanities, Social Sciences, and Sociology, reflecting its influence and reputation within these domains. Despite operating under a traditional subscription model, it ensures accessibility to a wide audience through its comprehensive studies and findings. The journal continuously aims to bridge the gap between empirical research and practical applications, making it an essential read for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to advance their understanding of social phenomena and indicators.

Asian Social Work and Policy Review

Advancing social change through research and policy insights.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1753-1403Frequency: 3 issues/year

Asian Social Work and Policy Review is a leading academic journal dedicated to advancing knowledge in the fields of social work, sociology, and public policy. Published by WILEY, this reputable journal has established a significant presence in the scholarly community since its inception in 2008. With a focus on Asian contexts, it thoughtfully addresses contemporary issues and diverse perspectives, making it an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and students alike. The journal boasts an impressive ranking, being placed in the Q2 category for Social Sciences (miscellaneous) and Sociology and Political Science, and Q3 for Social Work, as per the 2023 categorization. With a commitment to impactful research, the Asian Social Work and Policy Review is influential in shaping policy discussions and enhancing social work practices across the region. Although not currently open access, it offers readers valuable insights and rigorous academic contributions that are pivotal for understanding and addressing social challenges in Asia. For those striving for excellence in the field, this journal serves as a vital platform for disseminating meaningful research and driving social change.

SOCIOLOGICAL QUARTERLY

Engaging Minds, Transforming Society
Publisher: TAYLOR & FRANCIS INCISSN: 0038-0253Frequency: 4 issues/year

Sociological Quarterly, published by Taylor & Francis Inc, stands as a leading journal in the field of sociology and political science, providing a platform for innovative research and critical discourse since its inception in 1960. With an impressive impact factor reflected by its Q2 categorization in the 2023 rankings, this journal has effectively positioned itself as a crucial resource for scholars and practitioners alike. Operating under the ISSN 0038-0253 and E-ISSN 1533-8525, the journal is committed to advancing knowledge and fostering scholarly communication within the social sciences, evidenced by its robust Scopus ranking of 392 out of 1466 and a commendable 73rd percentile. Although it does not currently offer open access, Sociological Quarterly remains an essential publication for those seeking to engage with contemporary sociological issues and to contribute to the vibrant dialogue shaping our understanding of society.