Why Researchers Choose Journal of Leisure Research for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Leisure Research has long been a cornerstone in the academic exploration of leisure, recreation, and related human experiences. Established in 1969, this quarterly publication provides a vital platform for researchers, scholars, and practitioners to disseminate findings that advance understanding in sports leisure and beyond. Its commitment to high-quality, peer-reviewed articles ensures that contributions meet stringent standards, making it a preferred choice for those seeking to influence policy, education, and practice in leisure sciences.
Over the decades, the Journal of Leisure Research has evolved to address contemporary issues such as sustainable recreation, community engagement through parks, and the psychological benefits of leisure activities. Its interdisciplinary approach welcomes submissions from fields like sociology, psychology, environmental science, and public health, all unified by the theme of leisure's role in human well-being. Researchers value its accessibility to a diverse audience, including academics, policymakers, and industry professionals, which amplifies the real-world impact of published work.
With a focus on empirical research, theoretical advancements, and methodological innovations, the journal fosters dialogue on topics ranging from urban green spaces to adventure tourism. Its rigorous review process, involving experts from around the world, upholds academic integrity while encouraging innovative perspectives. For early-career researchers, publishing here offers a gateway to networking opportunities and recognition within the leisure studies community.
The journal's affiliation with the National Recreation and Park Association underscores its dedication to practical applications, bridging theory and practice. Whether examining the effects of leisure on mental health or the economics of recreational facilities, articles in the Journal of Leisure Research contribute to broader discussions on quality of life. As leisure patterns shift with societal changes, the journal remains at the forefront, adapting to new research paradigms like digital leisure and inclusive programming.
Researchers often highlight the journal's supportive editorial environment, which provides constructive feedback to refine manuscripts. This not only improves publication chances but also enhances overall scholarly development. For those in sports leisure, it offers targeted visibility among peers interested in physical activity, outdoor pursuits, and therapeutic recreation.
To explore career opportunities in this dynamic field, visit leisure studies jobs for the latest academic and professional openings.
Overview & History
The Journal of Leisure Research was founded in 1969 by the National Recreation and Park Association to fill a gap in scholarly literature on leisure behaviors and their societal implications. Initially focused on recreation management, it has expanded to encompass a wide array of leisure-related inquiries. Published by Taylor & Francis, the journal maintains a quarterly schedule, releasing issues that feature original research, reviews, and special topics editions.
Key milestones include its early emphasis on empirical studies of park usage in the 1970s, evolving to include qualitative analyses of leisure's cultural dimensions by the 1990s. Today, it continues to reflect the field's growth, with recent volumes addressing post-pandemic leisure recovery and equity in access to recreational spaces. This historical progression positions the Journal of Leisure Research as a reliable archive of leisure scholarship.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of Leisure Research covers interdisciplinary topics centered on leisure experiences, their planning, and impacts. It prioritizes research that informs leisure policy, program development, and personal well-being.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Sports Leisure | Studies on physical activities, sports participation, and their health benefits. |
| Recreation Management | Exploration of park systems, event planning, and resource allocation. |
| Leisure Sociology | Analysis of social dynamics, family leisure, and community engagement. |
| Tourism Studies | Investigations into travel, ecotourism, and sustainable leisure travel. |
| Environmental Leisure | Research on outdoor recreation, conservation, and human-nature interactions. |
Key Journal Metrics
The Journal of Leisure Research demonstrates strong academic standing through various metrics, reflecting its influence and reliability.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor (2022) | 2.4 | Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 2.7 | Clarivate |
| CiteScore | 3.8 | Scopus |
| h-Index | 62 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | N/A |
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Leisure Research is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, and EBSCOhost. Additional coverage includes PsycINFO for psychological aspects of leisure and CAB Abstracts for environmental topics. This indexing supports citation tracking and accessibility for global researchers.
Publication Model and Fees
Operating as a hybrid journal, the Journal of Leisure Research offers both subscription-based access and open access options. Authors can publish traditionally with no fees, or choose gold open access for an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $2,950. Subscriptions are managed through Taylor & Francis, with institutional access widely available. The model balances open dissemination with sustainable publishing practices.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions to the Journal of Leisure Research are handled via the ScholarOne Manuscripts platform at Taylor & Francis. Authors must adhere to APA style, with manuscripts limited to 8,000 words. Initial checks ensure originality, followed by double-anonymous peer review. Guidelines emphasize clear abstracts, ethical statements, and data availability. Average review time is 3-4 months, with decisions communicated promptly.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board of the Journal of Leisure Research comprises distinguished scholars from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief M. Deborah Bialeschki, from the University of North Carolina, brings expertise in gender and leisure. Other members include specialists in therapeutic recreation from Indiana University and tourism policy from the University of Florida. This diverse team ensures balanced, high-caliber oversight.
Why Publish in Journal of Leisure Research?
Publishing in the Journal of Leisure Research elevates a researcher's profile due to its targeted audience and solid metrics. It offers rapid dissemination, international exposure, and opportunities for special issues on emerging topics. Authors benefit from detailed reviewer feedback, enhancing future work. For sports leisure scholars, it provides a venue to influence interdisciplinary dialogues and practical applications in recreation.
Comparison with Similar Journals
The Journal of Leisure Research compares favorably with peers in scope and impact.
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| Journal of Leisure Research | 2.4 | Leisure studies, recreation | Taylor & Francis |
| Leisure Sciences | 2.9 | Leisure behavior, policy | Taylor & Francis |
| Journal of Park and Recreation Administration | 1.2 | Management, administration | Sagamore-Venture |
| World Leisure Journal | 1.5 | Global leisure trends | Taylor & Francis |
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
To succeed with submissions to the Journal of Leisure Research, align your work with current calls, such as inclusive leisure practices. Ensure robust methodology and theoretical grounding. Engage with recent issues for contextual fit. Proofread meticulously and seek pre-submission reviews. Track progress via the portal and respond thoughtfully to revisions for higher acceptance odds.
