RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences

Scope & Guideline

Championing quality research in the vibrant world of social sciences.

Introduction

Welcome to the RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences 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 RSF-The Russell Sage Journal of the Social Sciences, 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
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

Revista de Antropologia Social

Fostering Interdisciplinary Dialogue in Anthropology
Publisher: UNIV COMPLUTENSE MADRID, SERVICIO PUBLICACIONESISSN: 1131-558XFrequency: 2 issues/year

Revista de Antropologia Social, published by the Universidad Complutense de Madrid, is a vital resource in the field of Anthropology, featuring a wide range of research that explores cultural, social, and environmental dimensions from both historical and contemporary perspectives. With an ISSN of 1131-558X and E-ISSN of 1988-2831, this open-access journal has been a platform for scholarly communication since 1991, making high-quality research accessible to a global audience. Ranked in the Q3 quartile of anthropology journals in 2023, it reflects a commitment to promoting diverse voices and innovative methodologies within the discipline. While holding a Scopus rank of #339 out of 502 in Social Sciences - Anthropology, this journal stands out not only for its scholarly contributions but also for fostering interdisciplinary dialogue. Researchers, professionals, and students alike can benefit from its robust repository of articles, enriching their understanding of anthropological concepts and practices in the modern academic landscape.

European Journal of Social Security

Empowering Research on Social Security Challenges
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1388-2627Frequency: 4 issues/year

The European Journal of Social Security, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, is an esteemed academic journal that serves as a vital resource in the fields of social security, public policy, and social sciences. With the ISSN 1388-2627 and E-ISSN 2399-2948, the journal has established a prominent foothold within the academic community since its inception in 2002 and continues to thrive through to 2024. The journal is recognized for its rigorous contributions, achieving a Q2 ranking in Economics, Econometrics and Finance and Sociology and Political Science, as well as a Q3 ranking in Public Administration for 2023. With Scopus rankings placing it in the upper percentiles, it is an important platform for researchers, professionals, and students interested in the interconnections between social security systems and their societal impacts. Though it operates without an open access model, the European Journal of Social Security remains essential for advancing scholarly discourse and fostering a comprehensive understanding of contemporary social challenges and institutional responses across Europe and beyond.

Journal of Family Theory & Review

Empowering research in family studies.
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.

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF ECONOMICS AND SOCIOLOGY

Bridging Economic Theory and Social Understanding.
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.

LGBTQ Family-An Interdisciplinary Journal

Championing Inclusivity in Family Diversity
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 2770-3371Frequency: 5 issues/year

LGBTQ Family: An Interdisciplinary Journal, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is at the forefront of advancing scholarship in the fields of gender studies and social sciences. With an impressive 2023 impact factor that places it in the Q1 category for both Gender Studies and Social Sciences (Miscellaneous), this journal serves as a pivotal platform for researchers, professionals, and students dedicated to exploring the complexities and dynamics of LGBTQ family structures. Launched in 2022 and set to converge until 2024, it encourages a rich interdisciplinary dialogue, contributing to knowledge that is often overlooked. Although not currently open access, the journal offers vital insights and promotes discussion on contemporary family frameworks within LGBTQ communities, driving impactful research that can influence policy and social change. With a discerning audience in mind, LGBTQ Family is essential reading for those aiming to broaden their understanding of family diversity and advocate for inclusivity.

Social Justice Research

Advancing the Discourse on Equity and 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.

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WELFARE

Connecting scholars and practitioners for a better tomorrow.
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 1369-6866Frequency: 4 issues/year

The INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WELFARE, published by WILEY, stands as a leading platform in the realm of social sciences, specifically addressing the fields of Social Work and Sociology and Political Science. With an impressive Impact Factor and a consistent ranking in the Q1 and Q2 quartiles, this journal is highly regarded for its contribution to the discourse surrounding social policy, welfare systems, and societal issues on a global scale. The journal engages authors and readers alike by publishing original research, insightful reviews, and critical analyses that illuminate the complexities of social welfare practices from 1996 to the present. Available through Open Access options, the journal ensures that vital research findings are accessible to all stakeholders and the service address in the United Kingdom reflects its international outreach. As a vital resource for academics, practitioners, and policymakers, the INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WELFARE plays a crucial role in enhancing understanding and fostering improvements in social welfare systems worldwide.

JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY

Innovating Solutions for Community Well-Being
Publisher: WILEYISSN: 0090-4392Frequency: 8 issues/year

JOURNAL OF COMMUNITY PSYCHOLOGY, published by Wiley, is a leading academic journal that serves as a vital resource for researchers, practitioners, and students in the fields of community psychology, social psychology, and social work. Established in 1973, the journal emphasizes empirical studies, theoretical advancements, and practical applications relevant to community dynamics and the psychosocial factors influencing communities. With an impressive Q1 ranking in Social Work and a Q2 ranking in Social Psychology as of 2023, the journal continues to be a cornerstone for scholarly discourse, engaging hundreds of contributors and readers worldwide. Although it is not an open-access journal, its impactful research regularly contributes to informed community interventions and policies. The journal is indexed under ISSN 0090-4392 and E-ISSN 1520-6629 and is recognized for its high quality through various metrics, including its Scopus rank of #109 in Psychology - Social Psychology. Researchers and professionals alike will find invaluable insights and cutting-edge findings within the pages of this esteemed publication.

SOCIOLOGICKY CASOPIS-CZECH SOCIOLOGICAL REVIEW

Elevating Scholarly Discourse in Social Sciences
Publisher: INST SOCIOLOGY, ACAD SCIENCES CZECH REPUBLICISSN: 0038-0288Frequency: 6 issues/year

Sociologicky Casopis-Czech Sociological Review, published by the Institute of Sociology, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, is a premier academic journal dedicated to the advancement of sociological thought and research within the field of social sciences. With an ISSN of 0038-0288 and an E-ISSN of 2336-128X, this journal has established its significance since its inception in 1992 and has continuously provided a platform for scholarly discourse through rigorous peer-reviewed articles. Currently ranked in the Q3 category of Sociology and Political Science (2023) and holding the 814th position out of 1466 in Scopus rankings, the journal is vital for researchers who seek to explore contemporary sociological issues and contribute to the empirical and theoretical foundations of the discipline. While it operates under a traditional access model, the journal's articles can be crucial resources for academics, emerging scholars, and professionals eager to engage with diverse sociological perspectives and methodologies. With a commitment to high-quality research, Sociologicky Casopis serves as an essential conduit for sociological scholarship in the Czech Republic and beyond, appealing to a global audience interested in the dynamic interplay of society, culture, and politics.

Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment

Bridging Research and Real-World Dynamics
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 1091-1359Frequency: 8 issues/year

Welcome to the Journal of Human Behavior in the Social Environment, a premier academic publication dedicated to exploring the complex interactions between individuals and their social contexts. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this journal stands at the forefront of research, with an impressive impact factor that reflects its high citation rate and scholarly influence. With an H-index that signifies impactful contributions and a consistent ranking in the top quartiles for both Anthropology (Q1) and Social Sciences (miscellaneous) (Q2), it provides a vital platform for advancing knowledge in these fields. Covering a vast array of topics from social dynamics to psychological influences, the journal publishes original research, insightful reviews, and relevant case studies, showcasing the importance of human behavior within social environments. As we bridge a converged scholarly landscape from 1998 to 2024, we invite researchers, professionals, and students alike to engage with our cutting-edge findings and contribute to the ongoing dialogue in this essential area of study.