SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY

Scope & Guideline

Championing the African Psychological Narrative

Introduction

Welcome to the SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY 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 SOUTH AFRICAN JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY, 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
ISSN0081-2463
PublisherSAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD
Support Open AccessNo
CountryUnited States
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1979 to 2024
AbbreviationS AFR J PSYCHOL / South Afr. J. Psychol.
Frequency4 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
Address1 OLIVERS YARD, 55 CITY ROAD, LONDON EC1Y 1SP, ENGLAND

Aims and Scopes

The South African Journal of Psychology serves as a platform for advancing psychological research and practice within the unique socio-cultural context of South Africa. It aims to address the complexities of psychological phenomena through diverse methodologies while fostering an inclusive dialogue around contemporary psychological issues.
  1. Cultural and Contextual Relevance:
    The journal emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive research that reflects the diverse backgrounds and experiences of South African populations, ensuring that psychological theories and practices are relevant to local contexts.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approaches:
    It promotes interdisciplinary research that integrates insights from sociology, anthropology, and public health to enrich psychological understanding and address complex societal issues.
  3. Focus on Mental Health Interventions:
    The journal consistently publishes studies on mental health interventions tailored to the unique needs of South African communities, emphasizing evidence-based practices and innovative approaches.
  4. Social Justice and Equity:
    A core aim is to highlight issues of social justice, equity, and decolonization within psychology, advocating for marginalized voices and addressing systemic inequalities in mental health care.
  5. Research on Trauma and Resilience:
    The journal frequently explores themes of trauma, resilience, and coping strategies among various populations, particularly in the aftermath of historical and contemporary adversities.
Recent publications in the South African Journal of Psychology reveal several emerging themes that reflect current societal challenges and advancements in psychological research. These trends indicate a proactive response to the evolving landscape of psychology in South Africa.
  1. Decolonization of Psychology:
    There is a significant increase in research focused on decolonizing psychology, reflecting broader societal movements aimed at addressing historical injustices and re-evaluating psychological practices through an African lens.
  2. Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health:
    The journal has seen a surge in studies examining the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting issues such as anxiety, depression, and resilience in various populations, particularly among students and healthcare workers.
  3. Technological Interventions in Mental Health:
    Emerging themes include the exploration of technology-based interventions, such as mental health applications and telepsychology, reflecting a growing interest in leveraging technology to enhance access to psychological services.
  4. Intersectionality in Mental Health Research:
    There is an increasing focus on intersectionality, examining how overlapping social identities—such as race, gender, and socioeconomic status—affect mental health outcomes and access to care.
  5. Youth Mental Health and Well-Being:
    The journal is increasingly publishing research on youth mental health, particularly concerning educational settings and the impact of socio-economic factors on adolescent well-being.

Declining or Waning

While the South African Journal of Psychology has consistently focused on various critical themes, certain areas appear to be waning in prominence. This decline may reflect evolving research interests or shifts in societal priorities.
  1. Traditional Psychometric Assessments:
    There has been a noticeable decrease in publications focused solely on traditional psychometric assessments, possibly indicating a shift towards more holistic and contextually relevant approaches to psychological evaluation.
  2. Generalized Mental Health Studies:
    Research that does not specify cultural contexts or local relevance has become less prominent, as the journal increasingly prioritizes studies that address the specific needs and experiences of South African populations.
  3. Focus on Western Psychological Theories:
    The application of Western psychological theories without adaptation to local contexts seems to be declining, as there is a growing emphasis on indigenous knowledge systems and African-centered psychological frameworks.

Similar Journals

Cyprus Turkish Journal of Psychiatry and Psychology

Fostering innovative research in psychiatry and psychology.
Publisher: CYPRUS MENTAL HEALTH INSTISSN: 1302-7840Frequency: 3 issues/year

Cyprus Turkish Journal of Psychiatry and Psychology, published by the Cyprus Mental Health Institute, serves as a pivotal resource in the fields of psychiatry, clinical psychology, and applied psychology. With an ISSN of 1302-7840 and an E-ISSN of 2667-8225, this journal aims to advance knowledge and foster discussion on mental health issues relevant to both local and international contexts. Though it currently holds a Q4 classification in key categories and features low rankings in Scopus, it provides a vital platform for emerging research and perspectives that may easily resonate within the mental health community. Researchers and professionals are encouraged to contribute to this open-access journal, which seeks to disseminate important findings and innovative practices from 2020 to 2024. The journal’s address in Turkey positions it as a unique contributor to the understanding of psychological and psychiatric issues in the region. In a rapidly evolving field, the *Cyprus Turkish Journal of Psychiatry and Psychology* presents itself as a growing venue for dissemination of research, underlining the significant role it plays in shaping future discourse in mental health.

SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORICAL JOURNAL

Connecting Histories: South Africa and the African Continent
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0258-2473Frequency: 2 issues/year

The SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORICAL JOURNAL, published by ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTD, serves as a vital platform for the dissemination of historical research focusing on South Africa and the broader African continent. Established in 1969, this esteemed journal has evolved to showcase high-quality scholarly articles and original research that contribute significantly to the field of history, achieving a commendable Q2 ranking within the History category as of 2023. With an impressive Scopus rank of #424 out of 1760, positioned in the 75th percentile of its category, the journal attracts contributions from a diverse array of historians and social scientists. Although not an open-access publication, it remains accessible to academia through institutional subscriptions, promoting critical discourse among researchers, students, and professionals. The SOUTH AFRICAN HISTORICAL JOURNAL is not only a repository of knowledge but also a catalyst for groundbreaking discussions and insights into the rich tapestry of South African history.

JOURNAL OF HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY

Innovating Understanding of Health through Psychological Research.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 1359-1053Frequency: 14 issues/year

JOURNAL OF HEALTH PSYCHOLOGY, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, is a leading scholarly journal that caters to the field of applied psychology, with a particular focus on understanding the psychological aspects of health and illness. Established in 1996, this journal has steadily gained prominence, currently holding a commendable rank of #49 out of 249 journals in its category as per Scopus, placing it in the 80th percentile. With an impact factor reflecting its influential role within the academic community, the journal strives to publish high-quality research that informs both theoretical and practical applications in health psychology. It provides a platform for researchers, professionals, and students alike to engage with innovative studies, critical reviews, and insightful discussions that advance the understanding of psychological processes related to health behaviors and medical practices. Although it operates under traditional access models, the rich content and comprehensive analyses offered by the journal remain invaluable to those dedicated to the intersection of psychology and health.

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL

Exploring Innovations in Educational Well-Being
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0143-0343Frequency: 6 issues/year

SCHOOL PSYCHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL is a leading academic journal published by SAGE Publications Ltd, focusing on the interdisciplinary fields of developmental and educational psychology, education, and psychiatry and mental health. With its origins dating back to 1979, this esteemed journal aims to advance the understanding and practice of school psychology by disseminating high-quality research and innovative practices that support the development and well-being of students globally. Recognized for its impact, it currently holds a Q2 ranking in Developmental and Educational Psychology, a Q1 ranking in Education, and a Q2 ranking in Psychiatry and Mental Health according to the latest 2023 quartile assessments. The journal's commitment to excellence is further evidenced by its impressive standings in Scopus Ranks, where it occupies significant percentiles across various categories. Scholars and practitioners looking to stay at the forefront of research in school psychology can access this journal for insights that explore critical issues faced within educational systems, making it an invaluable resource for advancing both theoretical and applied knowledge.

Scandinavian Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology

Connecting global expertise for young mental health challenges.
Publisher: SCIENDOISSN: 2245-8875Frequency: 3 issues/year

The Scandinavian Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology is a premier platform for disseminating significant research in the fields of child and adolescent mental health. Published by SCIENDO, this journal has embraced an Open Access model since 2013, promoting wider accessibility to vital findings and discussions in this pivotal area of study. With a unique focus on issues facing young individuals, it aims to bridge gaps between research, clinical practice, and policy-making. The journal invites submissions from researchers, clinicians, and practitioners worldwide, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and contributions. By fostering scholarly dialogue and innovation, it plays an essential role in advancing knowledge and improving outcomes in child and adolescent psychiatry and psychology, making it a crucial resource for anyone invested in the mental well-being of young populations.

South African Journal of Psychiatry

Connecting minds, sharing insights in psychiatry.
Publisher: AOSISISSN: 1608-9685Frequency: 4 issues/year

The South African Journal of Psychiatry is a pivotal open-access platform dedicated to advancing research and knowledge in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Established in 2002 and published by AOSIS, this journal serves as a crucial resource for professionals, researchers, and students interested in the latest developments and findings in mental health care, particularly within the South African context and beyond. With an ISSN of 1608-9685 and an E-ISSN of 2078-6786, the journal has firmly established itself within the international psychiatric community, ranking in the Q3 quartile for Psychiatry and Mental Health as of 2023. Although currently positioned at 396/567 in Scopus rankings, it consistently strives to disseminate high-quality research that addresses critical issues in mental health. By providing unrestricted access to scholarly articles, the South African Journal of Psychiatry not only promotes the sharing of knowledge but also encourages collaboration among researchers, enhancing the global dialogue on mental health challenges. For those keen on contributing to the field, the journal invites submissions that offer innovative insights and foster evidence-based practices.

PSYCHOLOGY OF WOMEN QUARTERLY

Empowering research at the intersection of psychology and gender.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTDISSN: 0361-6843Frequency: 4 issues/year

Psychology of Women Quarterly, published by SAGE Publications Ltd, is a leading academic journal dedicated to advancing research in the fields of psychology, gender studies, and developmental education. With an impressive Q1 ranking across multiple categories including Arts and Humanities, Developmental and Educational Psychology, and Gender Studies, this journal is recognized for its impactful contributions to the understanding of women’s psychological experiences and societal roles. The journal, which has been published continuously since 1976, offers a platform for innovative studies and theoretical discussions on various aspects affecting women's lives, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students interested in gender issues and psychological science. While it does not currently offer open access, the rigorous peer-review process ensures that only the highest quality research is presented to the academic community. The journal’s ISSN is 0361-6843, and it is indexed in numerous databases, ensuring broad visibility and reach.

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY

Championing scholarly contributions to the psychology community since 1996.
Publisher: NEW ZEALAND PSYCHOL SOCISSN: 0112-109XFrequency: 3 issues/year

NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF PSYCHOLOGY is a prominent scholarly publication dedicated to advancing the field of psychology through rigorous research and insightful analysis. Published by the New Zealand Psychological Society, this journal serves as a platform for both local and international scholars to share their findings and perspectives. While it holds a Category Quartiles ranking of Q4 in Psychology (miscellaneous) and is placed at the 18th percentile in the broader Scopus Ranks for General Psychology, it remains a crucial resource for understanding psychological phenomena within the unique socio-cultural context of New Zealand. The journal's commitment to fostering an inclusive academic dialogue is underscored by its availability since 1996, allowing for a rich historical perspective on psychological research. Although not categorized as open access, the journal maintains a strategic relevance for researchers, practitioners, and students alike, offering valuable insights into the landscape of psychology and the intricacies of human behavior. The journal address is PO Box 4092, Wellington, New Zealand.

GHANA SOCIAL SCIENCE JOURNAL

Connecting Academia to Community Development
Publisher: UNIV GHANAISSN: 0855-4730Frequency: 2 issues/year

GHANA SOCIAL SCIENCE JOURNAL, published by University of Ghana, serves as a critical platform for discourse and research in the social sciences, focusing on issues pertinent to Ghana and the broader African context. This peer-reviewed journal, ISSN 0855-4730, emphasizes interdisciplinary studies that delve into areas such as sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science, making it an invaluable resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. The journal aims to foster a deeper understanding of the social dynamics affecting Ghanaian society, creating a bridge between academic research and practical application. While currently not published as an open-access journal, it remains committed to the dissemination of knowledge that informs policy-making and community development. As a notable contributor to the social sciences, the Ghana Social Science Journal stands out for its dedication to elevating scholarly dialogue and promoting innovative research within its critical field of study.

Journal of Black Psychology

Advancing insights into the psychology of the Black experience.
Publisher: SAGE PUBLICATIONS INCISSN: 0095-7984Frequency: 6 issues/year

Journal of Black Psychology, published by SAGE Publications Inc, stands as a premier platform dedicated to advancing the understanding of psychological phenomena within the Black community. Established in 1978, this esteemed journal boasts a remarkable history of contributing to fields such as Anthropology and Applied Psychology, achieving a notable Q1 ranking in both areas as per the latest 2023 evaluation. With an impressive Scopus ranking placing it in the top 1% in the field of Anthropology and the 83rd percentile in Applied Psychology, the Journal reflects unparalleled scholarly output and influence. Although it does not operate under an open access model, the journal remains a critical resource for researchers, professionals, and students seeking to explore influential studies, theory, and practice impacting the Black diaspora. By nurturing interdisciplinary dialogue and dissemination of vital research, the Journal of Black Psychology is essential for anyone committed to understanding and addressing the complex psychological issues faced by Black individuals and communities.