Why Researchers Choose Sociology of Sport Journal for High-Impact Publications
Sociology of Sport Journal serves as a leading peer-reviewed publication dedicated to advancing the understanding of sport within sociological frameworks. Established in 1984 by Human Kinetics, this quarterly journal has evolved into a cornerstone for scholars examining the interplay between sport, culture, and society. It attracts contributions from interdisciplinary perspectives, including sociology, anthropology, and cultural studies, focusing on how sport reflects and shapes social structures, inequalities, and identities.
The journal's commitment to rigorous scholarship is evident in its editorial process, which emphasizes theoretical innovation and empirical depth. Researchers value its international scope, publishing work from diverse global contexts while maintaining a strong North American foundation. With a circulation that reaches academics, policymakers, and practitioners worldwide, Sociology of Sport Journal amplifies voices in underrepresented areas such as gender dynamics in sports, racial equity, and the commercialization of athletic cultures.
Key to its appeal is the balance between accessibility and excellence. Articles undergo double-anonymized peer review, ensuring fairness and quality. The journal's digital platform enhances visibility through open access options and multimedia supplements. For early-career researchers, it provides mentorship opportunities via special issues and symposia. Its influence extends beyond academia, informing public discourse on issues like youth sports participation and athlete activism.
Publishing here not only boosts citation metrics but also fosters collaborations across disciplines. Scholars report that articles in Sociology of Sport Journal often lead to invitations for conferences and further funding. As sport's role in society grows amid global challenges, this journal remains essential for timely, impactful research. To explore career opportunities in academia, visit our sociology faculty positions or check the academic calendar for submission deadlines.
Overview & History
Sociology of Sport Journal was founded in 1984 to fill a gap in sociological literature on sport. Published by Human Kinetics, it emerged from the North American Society for the Sociology of Sport (NASSS), aiming to centralize fragmented research. Over four decades, it has chronicled shifts from functionalist views of sport to critical analyses of power and globalization.
Early volumes focused on community sports and leisure, evolving to address contemporary issues like digital media's impact on fan cultures and sport's role in social movements. The journal's milestone 25th anniversary in 2009 highlighted its contributions to feminist sport sociology. Today, it publishes four issues annually, with special sections on emerging topics like e-sports and climate change in athletics.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The journal encompasses the sociological study of sport across individual, institutional, and societal levels. It welcomes theoretical, qualitative, and quantitative approaches to topics such as social inequality, identity formation, and policy implications in sports.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Sociology | Core focus on social structures, norms, and interactions in sport contexts. |
| Sport Studies | Interdisciplinary lens on physical activity's cultural and historical dimensions. |
| Cultural Studies | Exploration of sport as a site of meaning-making and resistance. |
| Gender Studies | Analyses of equity, representation, and power dynamics in sports. |
| Race and Ethnicity | Investigations into diversity, inclusion, and discrimination in athletic arenas. |
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 2.917 | Clarivate JCR 2022 |
| CiteScore | 4.2 | Scopus 2023 |
| h-Index | 62 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | 25% | Publisher Data |
| Average Review Time | 3-4 months | Journal Guidelines |
Indexing and Abstracting
Sociology of Sport Journal 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 intersections and Sociological Abstracts. These listings facilitate citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. For more on academic resources, see our rate my professor tool.
Publication Model and Fees
The journal operates on a hybrid model, offering subscription access with optional open access. Article Processing Charges (APCs) for OA are $2,500 USD, waivable for authors from low-income countries. No fees for non-OA submissions. Human Kinetics supports sustainable publishing through institutional partnerships. This model balances quality control with broader dissemination.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Manuscripts are submitted via the ScholarOne platform at the journal's official site. Guidelines require 8,000-10,000 words, APA style, and anonymized files. Authors must declare conflicts and obtain permissions for figures. Initial screening checks fit, followed by peer review. Revisions are typical, with decisions in 3-4 months. For tips, explore research positions.
Editorial Board Highlights
The board comprises 20+ international experts, led by Editor-in-Chief Dr. Natalie Barker-Ruchti (Sweden). Notable members include Dr. Jay Coakley (USA, sociology pioneer) and Dr. Ramón Spaaij (Australia, community sport specialist). Their diverse expertise ensures balanced, innovative content. Board terms rotate every three years to incorporate fresh perspectives.
Why Publish in Sociology of Sport Journal?
Publishing here elevates a researcher's profile due to the journal's targeted audience and metrics. It offers rapid dissemination and networking via NASSS affiliations. Authors benefit from detailed feedback, enhancing future work. High visibility leads to media mentions and policy influence, particularly on social justice in sports. Career-wise, SSJ publications strengthen tenure dossiers. Link to conferences for related events.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| International Review for the Sociology of Sport | 3.5 | Global sociological perspectives | SAGE |
| Sport in Society | 1.2 | Cultural and historical aspects | Taylor & Francis |
| Journal of Sport and Social Issues | 2.1 | Social justice and policy | SAGE |
| Sociology of Sport Journal | 2.9 | Core sociology of sport | Human Kinetics |
This comparison highlights SSJ's competitive edge in impact and specificity.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Align your work with current calls, like inequality themes.
- Use mixed methods for robust arguments.
- Cite recent SSJ articles to show engagement.
- Seek pre-submission feedback from colleagues.
- Prepare for revisions by addressing reviewer comments thoroughly.
- Utilize tenure-track opportunities post-publication.
These strategies increase acceptance chances. For broader academic support, visit rate my professor in sociology.