Why Researchers Choose Disability & Society for High-Impact Publications
Disability & Society has established itself as a cornerstone in the field of disability studies since its inception in 1986. Published by Taylor & Francis, this quarterly journal provides a vital platform for interdisciplinary research that challenges societal perceptions of disability and promotes inclusive policies. With a focus on the social, cultural, and political dimensions of disability, it attracts contributions from sociologists, educators, policymakers, and health professionals worldwide. The journal's commitment to advancing disability rights and accessibility makes it a preferred choice for researchers aiming to influence real-world change.
One key reason for its appeal is the rigorous yet supportive peer-review process, which ensures high-quality publications that resonate across academia and beyond. Disability & Society's impact factor of 2.9 reflects its influence, as cited in major databases like Scopus and Web of Science. Scholars value its open access options and hybrid model, allowing flexibility in dissemination. The journal covers topics from historical analyses of disability movements to contemporary issues like digital accessibility and intersectional identities. By publishing empirical studies, theoretical frameworks, and policy critiques, it fosters dialogue on how societies can better accommodate diverse needs.
Researchers often select Disability & Society for its international scope and editorial expertise, led by a diverse board from the UK, US, and Europe. Articles here not only contribute to academic discourse but also inform advocacy efforts. For instance, recent issues have explored the role of disability in education and employment equity, drawing citations from global institutions. Publishing in Disability & Society enhances a researcher's profile, opening doors to collaborations and funding opportunities in social sciences.
To get started on your publication journey, review the sociology academic jobs section for related career insights or explore PhD programs in social policy to build your expertise.
Overview & History
Disability & Society originated in 1986 as the journal of the British Sociological Association's Disability Study Group, evolving into an independent publication under Taylor & Francis. It shifted from a UK-centric focus to a global perspective, reflecting the international disability rights movement. Key milestones include its adoption of a social model of disability in the 1990s and integration of intersectional approaches in the 2000s. Today, it remains a leader in critiquing ableism and promoting emancipatory research methodologies.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses a broad range of topics within disability studies, emphasizing social barriers over individual deficits. It welcomes submissions on accessibility in education, healthcare disparities, disability in media, and policy reforms. Disciplines intersect with sociology, education, and public health, ensuring multifaceted analyses.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Sociology | Social constructions of disability and inequality. |
| Social Policy | Policy impacts on disabled communities. |
| Education | Inclusive practices and accessibility in learning. |
| Health Sciences | Disability in medical and rehabilitation contexts. |
| Cultural Studies | Representations of disability in arts and media. |
Key Journal Metrics
Disability & Society maintains strong metrics that underscore its academic rigor and relevance. These figures, sourced from Clarivate Journal Citation Reports and Scopus, highlight its position in the field.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 2.9 | Clarivate JCR |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.2 | Clarivate JCR |
| CiteScore | 4.8 | Scopus |
| SJR (SCImago Journal Rank) | 1.05 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 85 | Scopus |
Indexing and Abstracting
The journal is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide visibility. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, PubMed (select articles), ERIC, and Sociological Abstracts. This coverage facilitates discoverability for researchers worldwide. For open access visibility, it is also listed in DOAJ, though as a hybrid journal, not all content is freely available.
Publication Model and Fees
Disability & Society operates on a hybrid model, offering both subscription-based and open access options. Authors can publish traditionally with no fees or choose gold open access via Taylor & Francis Open Select, incurring an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,150 USD (as of 2023; discounts available for society members). There are no submission fees, and waivers are offered for authors from low-income countries. This model balances accessibility with sustainability.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through the ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at the journal's official site. Manuscripts should be 6,000–8,000 words, double-anonymized for peer review. Guidelines emphasize original, non-discriminatory language and adherence to the social model of disability. Reviewers assess for theoretical contribution and methodological soundness, with decisions typically in 3–6 months.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial team, chaired by Editor-in-Chief Karen Soldatic (Australia), includes experts like Nick Watson (UK) and Tanya Titchkosky (Canada). Board members represent diverse regions, ensuring balanced perspectives on global disability issues. Their backgrounds in sociology and policy strengthen the journal's interdisciplinary ethos.
Why Publish in Disability & Society?
Publishing here offers exposure to a dedicated audience of over 10,000 annual downloads per article. It enhances career progression by associating with a Q1-ranked journal in sociology. Authors benefit from rapid online publication and promotional support via Taylor & Francis social channels. For those in disability research, it provides a venue to drive social change.
Comparison with Similar Journals
Disability & Society distinguishes itself through its sociological lens compared to more medical-focused peers. Below is a comparison based on key metrics.
| Journal | Impact Factor | Publisher | Focus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Disability & Society | 2.9 | Taylor & Francis | Social model, policy |
| Disability Studies Quarterly | Not ranked (open access) | Ohio State University | Cultural, humanities |
| Journal of Disability Policy Studies | 1.2 | SAGE | US policy focus |
| Scandinavian Journal of Disability Research | 1.8 | Taylor & Francis | Nordic perspectives |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your work with the journal's social model emphasis.
- Include diverse voices and intersectional analyses.
- Check academic calendar for deadlines.
- Engage with recent issues for thematic fit.
- Seek feedback from peers in Rate My Professor networks.
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