Gender & Society – Social Science Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Gender & Society for High-Impact Publications

Gender & Society stands as a cornerstone in the field of Social Science, particularly for those exploring feminist perspectives on gender, power, and social structures. Published by SAGE Publications on behalf of Sociologists for Women in Society since 1987, this quarterly journal has built a reputation for rigorous, interdisciplinary scholarship that challenges conventional norms and amplifies marginalized voices. Researchers are drawn to its commitment to high-quality, peer-reviewed articles that bridge sociology with broader social sciences, offering a platform where empirical studies, theoretical analyses, and policy-oriented work converge to influence real-world change.

The journal's prestige stems from its focus on original research that interrogates how gender intersects with race, class, sexuality, and other axes of inequality. With a circulation that reaches academics, policymakers, and activists worldwide, publishing here ensures visibility in key debates. Its impact factor of 3.4, as reported by Clarivate Journal Citation Reports, underscores its influence, placing it among the top outlets for gender studies. For early-career scholars, Gender & Society provides not just publication credits but also opportunities to engage with a network of influential feminists.

Submissions are welcomed from diverse methodological approaches, including qualitative interviews, quantitative surveys, and ethnographic studies. The editorial team prioritizes work that advances theoretical frameworks while remaining accessible to interdisciplinary audiences. Authors benefit from SAGE's robust production process, ensuring wide dissemination through online platforms and library subscriptions. As open access options grow, the journal adapts to modern publishing needs without compromising its nonprofit roots tied to Sociologists for Women in Society.

Whether you're investigating workplace gender disparities or cultural representations of femininity, Gender & Society offers a venue for transformative scholarship. To explore related academic opportunities, check out sociology jobs and connect with the field.

Overview & History

Established in 1987, Gender & Society emerged from the vision of Sociologists for Women in Society to create a dedicated space for feminist sociological inquiry. Initially published bimonthly, it transitioned to quarterly in later years, maintaining a steady output of cutting-edge research. The journal's founding editors emphasized intersectionality, drawing from Black feminist thought and global perspectives to expand beyond Western-centric views.

Over three decades, it has chronicled shifts in gender studies, from early focuses on labor and family to contemporary topics like digital feminism and transnational gender justice. Key milestones include special issues on violence against women and LGBTQ+ rights, which have shaped disciplinary discourses. Today, it remains affiliated with Sociologists for Women in Society, ensuring editorial independence and community-driven priorities.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Gender & Society encompasses a broad yet focused scope, prioritizing empirical and theoretical work on gender as a social construct. It welcomes manuscripts that examine how gender operates in institutions, cultures, and everyday life, often intersecting with other social categories.

This multidisciplinary approach attracts contributors from various fields, fostering dialogues that enrich Social Science scholarship.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics highlight the journal's enduring influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in evolving academic landscapes.

Indexing and Abstracting

Gender & Society is indexed in major databases, ensuring discoverability for researchers worldwide. Key listings include Social Sciences Citation Index (SSCI), Scopus, and Sociological Abstracts. It is also covered by JSTOR for archival access and EBSCOhost for library integrations. For open access visibility, it appears in DOAJ, though as a hybrid journal, not all content is freely available. These indexations facilitate high citation rates and broad readership.

External links to these resources: Official Journal Homepage, Scopus.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Gender & Society offers traditional subscription-based publishing alongside gold open access options. Subscription access is provided through SAGE Journals platform, with institutional licenses common in universities. For open access, authors can pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,040 USD, which covers peer review, editing, and perpetual access. No fees apply for non-OA submissions, aligning with its society-sponsored model. Sherpa/RoMEO rates it as green for self-archiving, allowing preprint deposits.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Manuscripts are submitted via the SAGE Track system, an online portal that streamlines the process. Guidelines require double-anonymous peer review, with articles typically 8,000–10,000 words. Authors must adhere to APA style, include abstracts, and disclose conflicts. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by 2–3 external reviews. Revisions are common, emphasizing clarity and theoretical contribution. Detailed instructions are available on the journal site.

Related resources: gender studies PhD programs for preparation.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board comprises distinguished scholars from top institutions. Editor-in-Chief Sharmila Rudrappa (University of Texas at Austin) leads with expertise in immigration and gender. Associate editors include specialists in queer theory and global feminisms, such as Dana Britton (Oregon State University). International members ensure diverse perspectives, from Europe to Asia. This team upholds rigorous standards while promoting inclusive scholarship.

Why Publish in Gender & Society?

Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile due to the journal's targeted audience and high visibility. It offers rapid dissemination, with accepted articles online within months. The peer review process provides constructive feedback, enhancing manuscript quality. For career advancement, citations from Gender & Society bolster tenure dossiers and grant applications. Its society affiliation fosters community engagement, including conference opportunities.

Explore Rate My Professor for insights from academics in the field.

Comparison with Similar Journals

This comparison shows Gender & Society's strong positioning in impact and scope breadth.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, align your work with the journal's emphasis on originality and social relevance. Craft a compelling abstract that highlights theoretical novelty. Engage with recent issues to cite current debates. Seek feedback from colleagues before submission. Persistence pays off—many revised papers become landmarks. Track your submission status via the portal and prepare for iterative reviews.

For planning, visit the academic calendar. Additional links: higher ed jobs, tenure-track positions, feminist studies resources, sociology faculty positions, gender equity initiatives, social science conferences, publishing tips for academics, intersectionality research, women in academia, peer review process, open access publishing, citation management tools.