Social Media + Society
Scope & Guideline
Advancing Knowledge at the Intersection of Technology and Culture
Introduction
Aims and Scopes
- Social Media and Identity Construction:
Research exploring how social media platforms facilitate identity formation, self-presentation, and the negotiation of personal and collective identities across various demographics. - Political Communication and Activism:
Investigations into social media's role in political discourse, activism, and public engagement, analyzing how online platforms influence political behavior and mobilization. - Mental Health and Well-Being:
Studies examining the impact of social media use on mental health, including both positive and negative effects, and how online interactions influence emotional well-being. - Disinformation and Misinformation:
Research focused on the spread of false information through social media, its implications for public opinion, trust in media, and strategies for combating misinformation. - Cultural Practices and Community Building:
Exploration of how social media fosters community, cultural practices, and social norms, including the role of memes, hashtags, and digital storytelling. - Digital Governance and Platform Dynamics:
Analysis of the governance structures of social media platforms, including content moderation, algorithmic biases, and the implications for user agency and freedom of expression.
Trending and Emerging
- Intersectionality in Social Media Studies:
An increasing focus on how social media intersects with various social identities, including race, gender, and sexuality, emphasizing the importance of diverse narratives and experiences. - Mental Health Narratives and Support:
Research exploring the role of social media in mental health discussions and support networks, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the platform's potential for fostering community and resilience. - Influencer Culture and Digital Economy:
A growing interest in the impact of influencers on consumer behavior, political discourse, and cultural trends, reflecting broader shifts in marketing and communication strategies. - Digital Activism and Social Movements:
Emerging studies on how social media facilitates grassroots activism, particularly in response to social justice movements, showcasing the platform's role in mobilizing support and awareness. - Algorithmic Accountability and Ethics:
An increasing emphasis on the ethical implications of algorithms that govern social media interactions, including concerns about bias, misinformation, and the need for transparency in platform governance. - Technological Integration and Hybrid Spaces:
Research focusing on the convergence of social media with other technologies (e.g., AI, VR) and how these integrations create new forms of interaction and community engagement.
Declining or Waning
- Traditional Media Comparisons:
Research comparing social media to traditional media has seen a decrease, possibly due to the growing integration of social media into mainstream communication channels and the diminishing relevance of traditional media in certain contexts. - Basic User Engagement Metrics:
Studies focusing on simplistic engagement metrics (likes, shares) are waning, as there is a shift toward more nuanced analyses of user behavior and interaction dynamics. - Geographic and Cultural Specificity:
Research that primarily examines social media phenomena in isolated geographic or cultural contexts is becoming less prevalent, as there is an increasing emphasis on global interconnectedness and comparative studies. - Nostalgic Narratives of Early Social Media:
Discussions centered around the early days of social media and its initial impacts are declining, as the focus shifts to current trends and future implications. - Platform-Specific Studies:
Research that solely concentrates on individual platforms without considering cross-platform dynamics is becoming less common, as scholars recognize the need for comprehensive analyses that account for user behavior across multiple platforms.
Similar Journals
International Journal of Communication
Empowering voices through open access scholarship.International Journal of Communication, published by USC Annenberg Press, is a premier open access journal dedicated to advancing the field of communication studies. Since its inception in 2007, the journal has provided a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students to engage with cutting-edge research, theoretical frameworks, and empirical studies. With an impressive Q1 quartile ranking in Communication for 2023 and a notable Scopus rank of 156 out of 511 in the Social Sciences Communication category, the journal consistently contributes to high-quality scholarly discourse. It covers a wide array of topics, making it a crucial resource for those looking to stay informed about the latest developments in communication research. The journal's commitment to open access enhances its reach and impact, fostering a global community of academics and practitioners dedicated to exploring the complexities of communication in contemporary society. This makes the International Journal of Communication an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of communication today.
MEDIA CULTURE & SOCIETY
Illuminating the Impact of Media on Cultural PhenomenaMEDIA CULTURE & SOCIETY, published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, is a prominent academic journal dedicated to the interdisciplinary exploration of media, culture, and societal dynamics. With a long-standing history since its inception in 1979 and extending to 2024, this journal serves as a vital platform for researchers, professionals, and students interested in understanding the complex interplay between media and cultural phenomena. Operating from the United Kingdom, it holds a prestigious Q1 ranking in both communication and sociology/political science categories, reflecting its significant impact within these fields. The journal’s Scopus ranks further attest to its excellence, placing it in the top percentiles and making it an essential resource for advancing scholarly discussions. While not open access, MEDIA CULTURE & SOCIETY continues to provide insightful analyses that shape contemporary discourse on the role of media in society, ensuring its relevance and importance to academic communities worldwide.
NEW MEDIA & SOCIETY
Illuminating the Future of Communication and SocietyNEW MEDIA & SOCIETY is a leading academic journal published by SAGE PUBLICATIONS LTD, specializing in the dynamic interplay between new media and its impact on society. Established in 1999, the journal has become a vital resource for researchers and professionals within the fields of communication, sociology, and political science, consistently ranking in the first quartile (Q1) of its categories according to the 2023 Scopus Rankings. With an impressive percentile of 98th in both communication and sociology disciplines, NEW MEDIA & SOCIETY provides a platform for cutting-edge research that explores the complexities of digital interaction and its societal implications. Although the journal is not open access, it remains accessible through various academic institutions, making it an essential reference for students and scholars aiming to engage with the latest advancements in new media research. As the journal converges its focus into 2024, it aims to foster interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation, addressing critical issues related to digital technologies and their role in shaping contemporary society.
Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies
Exploring the Convergence of Media, Technology, and CommunicationThe Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies, published by Bastas Publications DOO in Cyprus, stands as a crucial platform for scholars and practitioners in the rapidly evolving fields of communication, media, and technology. With an ISSN of 1986-3497, this journal addresses a diverse range of topics at the intersection of these disciplines, making significant contributions to both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. As a recognized entity in the academic community, it boasts impressive rankings in Scopus, such as Q2 in Communication and Q2 in Media Technology, illustrating its impact and relevance. Researchers will appreciate its open access model, which facilitates knowledge dissemination and engagement among audiences. By fostering a collaborative environment for innovative ideas and research findings, the journal not only advances academic inquiry but also supports the professional development of its readership in navigating the complexities of modern media landscapes. Aiming to bridge the gap between theory and practice, the Online Journal of Communication and Media Technologies is an essential resource for those who wish to stay at the forefront of communication and media research from 2019 through 2024.
Media International Australia
Illuminating Contemporary Media IssuesMedia International Australia is a leading journal that occupies a unique position at the intersection of communication and cultural studies. Published by SAGE Publications Ltd, this journal has established itself as a vital platform for scholarly discourse since its inception, now converging efforts from 2008 to 2024. With an impressive Q1 ranking in both the Communication and Cultural Studies categories, it ranks 12th out of 1304 in Cultural Studies and 42nd out of 511 in Communication, placing it within the 99th and 91st percentiles respectively according to Scopus metrics. The journal is committed to providing access to rigorous research that reflects contemporary issues in media, making it essential reading for researchers, professionals, and students keen on advancing their understanding of media's role in society. Despite not being fully Open Access, it ensures that quality research remains accessible through institutional subscriptions, allowing a broad audience to benefit from its insightful contributions.
Communication & Society-Spain
Championing High-Quality Research in Communication StudiesCommunication & Society-Spain, published by Universidad de Navarra, is an esteemed open access journal dedicated to advancing scholarship in the dynamic fields of communication and cultural studies. Since its inception in 1988, the journal has maintained a commitment to disseminating high-quality research that engages with contemporary issues and contributes to the evolving discourse around communication theories and practices. With a commendable Q1 ranking in both Communication and Cultural Studies categories, it stands as a prominent source for researchers and professionals alike, reflecting its robust presence in the academic community—evidenced by its Scopus rankings placing it in the top percentiles within both fields. The journal's scope encompasses diverse perspectives and methodologies, thereby fostering interdisciplinary dialogue essential for understanding the complexities of communication in society. With a publication history that spans from 2010 to 2024 and a ranking of #87 out of 1304 in Cultural Studies, our commitment to open access ensures that impactful research is readily available to all, promoting further scholarly engagement and innovation.
JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION
Advancing the Art and Science of Communication.Welcome to the JOURNAL OF COMMUNICATION, a premier academic publication in the fields of Communication and Linguistics, published by Oxford University Press Inc. Since its inception in 1951, this journal has been dedicated to fostering scholarly dialogue and advancing research in the dynamic landscape of communication studies. With an impressive impact factor and Q1 ranking in both Communication and Linguistics categories for 2023, it stands among the most influential journals, ranking 6th out of 1088 in Language and Linguistics and 10th out of 511 in Communication, reflecting its esteemed position in the academic community. The journal aims to publish innovative and rigorous research that explores the multifaceted dimensions of communication, making it an essential resource for researchers, professionals, and students alike. Although it is not an open-access journal, readers can access the valuable insights and groundbreaking studies contained within its pages at Journals Dept, 2001 Evans Rd, Cary, NC, 27513, United States, ensuring that crucial findings and theoretical advancements remain within reach of those passionate about the field.
Review of Communication Research
Pioneering Open Access for Global Knowledge ExchangeReview of Communication Research is a prestigious open-access journal dedicated to advancing the field of communication studies. Published by REVIEW COMMUNICATION RESEARCH from its base in Madrid, Spain, this journal has established itself as a vital platform for scholarly discourse since its inception. With an impressive impact factor and ranked in the Q1 quartile of communication journals for 2023, it holds a commendable position, placing it within the top 13% of approximately 511 journals in the communication category on Scopus. Since becoming open-access in 2013, the journal has enabled researchers, professionals, and students to access high-quality research without financial barriers, thereby fostering a greater dissemination of knowledge and dialogue within the community. Covering a wide array of topics from communication theory to media studies, the Review of Communication Research continues to contribute significantly to the understanding and evolution of communication in today’s interconnected world. Researchers are encouraged to engage with and submit their findings to this influential journal to further enrich the scholarly landscape.
Profesional de la Informacion
Championing Quality Research for a Global AudienceProfesional de la Informacion is a leading academic journal dedicated to advancing research in the fields of Communication, Cultural Studies, Information Systems, and Library and Information Sciences. Published by EDICIONES PROFESIONALES INFORMACION SL-EPI, this journal has established itself as a pivotal resource for scholars and practitioners alike since its inception in 2006, holding an impressive Q1 ranking across its categories in 2023. With an impactful presence reflected in its Scopus Rankings—33rd out of 511 in Communication and 26th out of 280 in Library and Information Sciences—Profesional de la Informacion provides a forum for innovative research and discussion. Although it operates under a subscription model, the journal’s commitment to quality research contributes significantly to the knowledge base within its fields, making it an essential read for those who are passionate about information and communication studies. Positioned in the vibrant academic landscape of Barcelona, Spain, this journal encourages submissions that explore contemporary challenges and advancements in these vital areas of study, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of scholarly discourse.
JOURNAL OF BROADCASTING & ELECTRONIC MEDIA
Elevating Standards in Communication ScholarshipThe JOURNAL OF BROADCASTING & ELECTRONIC MEDIA, published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, is a premier academic publication in the field of communication, officially recognized in the Q1 category for its exceptional quality and impact. With a rich history dating back to 1985, this journal serves as a vital platform for innovative research and critical discussions surrounding broadcasting and electronic media, addressing contemporary issues in digital communication, media technology, and audience studies. The journal boasts an impressive Scopus rank of #73 out of 511 in the Social Sciences - Communication category, placing it within the top 15% of its field. Researchers, professionals, and students alike benefit from its insightful articles that contribute to understanding the evolving landscape of media and communication. Although it does not currently operate under an Open Access model, its rigorous peer-review process ensures that published works meet high academic standards, sustaining its reputation as a cornerstone for scholarly discourse in the media industry.