Psychological Science – Psychology Journal Guide for Researchers

Why Researchers Choose Psychological Science for High-Impact Publications

Psychological Science stands as a cornerstone in the field of psychology, offering a platform for innovative research that shapes our understanding of the human mind and behavior. Established in 1990 by the Association for Psychological Science, this journal has evolved into one of the most prestigious outlets for psychological inquiry. With a rigorous peer-review process and a commitment to disseminating cutting-edge findings, Psychological Science attracts submissions from leading experts worldwide. Its broad scope encompasses all areas of psychology, from cognitive processes to social dynamics, making it a go-to choice for researchers seeking visibility and influence.

The journal's impact factor of 10.8, as reported by Clarivate Journal Citation Reports for 2022, underscores its influence in the academic community. This metric reflects the average number of citations received by articles published in the preceding two years, highlighting the journal's role in advancing psychological knowledge. Researchers value Psychological Science for its rapid publication timeline and high standards, ensuring that accepted papers reach a global audience quickly. Whether exploring neural mechanisms or behavioral interventions, contributors find a receptive environment for their work.

Publishing in Psychological Science not only enhances a researcher's CV but also contributes to the broader discourse in psychology. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to choose traditional subscription-based publication or opt for open access with an article processing charge, broadening accessibility. For those navigating the competitive landscape of academic publishing, Psychological Science offers a pathway to recognition. Its editorial team, comprising distinguished psychologists, ensures that only the most compelling studies make it to print.

To explore opportunities in academia, consider browsing psychology faculty positions or checking the academic calendar for key deadlines. Aspiring authors are encouraged to review submission guidelines on the official site and prepare manuscripts that align with the journal's emphasis on concise, impactful reporting. By choosing Psychological Science, researchers invest in a legacy of discovery that resonates across disciplines.

Overview & History

Psychological Science was launched in 1990 as the flagship journal of the Association for Psychological Science (APS), aimed at bridging the gap between basic research and applied insights in psychology. Initially focused on short, high-impact reports, it has grown to include longer articles while maintaining its reputation for brevity and excellence. Over the decades, the journal has published seminal works on topics ranging from memory and perception to emotion and decision-making, influencing policy, education, and clinical practice.

Under SAGE Publications since 2006, Psychological Science has expanded its digital presence, offering multimedia supplements and online-first publication. This evolution reflects the changing landscape of scientific communication, ensuring that findings are accessible and timely. The journal's history is marked by milestones such as special issues on emerging fields like neuroscience and cultural psychology, solidifying its position as a leader in the discipline.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Psychological Science covers the full spectrum of psychological science, emphasizing empirical studies with broad implications. It welcomes research on cognitive, social, developmental, and clinical psychology, as well as interdisciplinary approaches involving neuroscience and behavioral economics.

This diverse scope ensures that Psychological Science serves as a hub for integrative research, appealing to a wide array of scholars.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics demonstrate Psychological Science's enduring influence and selectivity in the field.

Indexing and Abstracting

Psychological Science is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. Key services include PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. This comprehensive coverage facilitates citations and interdisciplinary reach, with abstracts available through DOAJ for open access articles.

Publication Model and Fees

The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with optional open access. The article processing charge (APC) for gold open access is $3,000, covering production and dissemination. No fees apply for traditional publication, making it accessible for funded and unfunded research alike. SAGE's transparent policies align with Plan S compliance.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Submissions are handled via the SAGE Track online portal. Authors must adhere to APA style, with manuscripts limited to 4,000 words for reports and 10,000 for longer articles. Preregistration is encouraged for transparency. The process involves initial screening, peer review by 2-3 experts, and revisions, typically taking 6-8 weeks.

Editorial Board Highlights

The editorial board features luminaries such as Editor-in-Chief Patricia J. Bauer (Emory University), specializing in memory development, and associate editors from institutions like Stanford and Oxford. Their expertise spans subfields, ensuring balanced and rigorous evaluation.

• Patricia J. Bauer: Memory and cognitive development
• Eric Stice: Eating disorders and prevention
• Susan A. Gelman: Conceptual development

Why Publish in Psychological Science?

Publishing here offers prestige, with articles frequently cited in media and policy. The journal's rapid turnaround and global readership amplify research impact. For career advancement, see Rate My Professor for insights from peers.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Psychological Science excels in empirical breadth compared to more specialized peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

To succeed, focus on novelty and generalizability. Use clear visuals and concise writing. Engage with recent issues for trends. For job opportunities post-publication, visit psychology postdoc jobs. Always check academic calendar for conference alignments.