Why Researchers Choose The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science for High-Impact Publications
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science has long been a cornerstone for scholars investigating the intricacies of human behavior within organizational settings. Established as a vital resource since its inception, this publication bridges theoretical insights with practical applications, making it indispensable for professionals in organisational development. Researchers are drawn to its commitment to advancing knowledge in areas such as change management, group dynamics, and leadership effectiveness. The journal's rigorous editorial process ensures that only high-quality, innovative studies see publication, contributing to its respected status in the academic community.
With a focus on interdisciplinary approaches, The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science encourages submissions that integrate psychology, sociology, and management sciences. Its pages feature empirical studies, theoretical models, and case analyses that inform real-world practices. For instance, articles often explore how behavioral interventions can enhance workplace productivity or foster inclusive cultures. This relevance extends beyond academia, influencing consultants, policymakers, and corporate leaders who seek evidence-based strategies.
The journal's impact is evident in its citation metrics and broad readership. Scholars value the opportunity to publish here because it amplifies their work's reach, connecting them with a global network of peers. Whether examining team collaboration or ethical decision-making, contributions to The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science shape ongoing dialogues in the field. As organizational challenges evolve, such as adapting to remote work or diversity initiatives, the journal remains at the forefront, providing timely and insightful content.
To maximize the benefits of publishing in this esteemed venue, researchers should align their work with its emphasis on actionable insights. Reviewing past issues reveals patterns in successful manuscripts, which often combine robust methodologies with clear implications. For those navigating their academic careers, submitting to The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science can elevate profiles and open doors to collaborations. Explore academic jobs in behavioral sciences to see how such publications enhance employability.
Overview & History
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science was founded in 1965 by the NTL Institute for Applied Behavioral Science, with SAGE Publications taking over as publisher in 1970. Initially aimed at disseminating research from the behavioral science laboratory to practical applications, it has evolved into a leading interdisciplinary journal. Over the decades, it has chronicled shifts in organizational theory, from early human relations movements to contemporary agile methodologies. Key milestones include special issues on diversity in the 1990s and digital transformation in the 2010s, reflecting its adaptability to societal changes.
Today, the journal maintains a quarterly publication schedule, featuring original articles, book reviews, and essays. Its editorial team, comprising experts from top universities, upholds standards of scholarly excellence. The publication's history underscores its role in fostering dialogue between academics and practitioners, making it a go-to source for understanding behavioral dynamics in complex environments.
Scope and Disciplines Covered
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science encompasses a wide array of topics centered on applying behavioral theories to organizational and social contexts. It prioritizes research that advances understanding of individual, group, and systemic behaviors, with an emphasis on intervention strategies and evaluative outcomes.
| Discipline | Description |
|---|---|
| Organisational Development | Focuses on planned change processes, leadership development, and cultural transformations within organizations. |
| Applied Psychology | Examines psychological principles in workplace settings, including motivation, stress management, and decision-making. |
| Social Psychology | Investigates group dynamics, interpersonal relations, and social influences on behavior in professional environments. |
| Management Sciences | Integrates behavioral insights into strategic management, innovation, and performance enhancement. |
| Human Resource Development | Covers training, coaching, and talent management through behavioral lenses. |
Manuscripts that cross these boundaries are particularly welcomed, promoting holistic views of behavioral applications.
Key Journal Metrics
| Metric | Value | Year/Source |
|---|---|---|
| Impact Factor | 2.917 | 2022 / Clarivate Journal Citation Reports |
| 5-Year Impact Factor | 3.456 | 2022 / Clarivate |
| CiteScore | 4.8 | 2022 / Scopus |
| SJR | 0.912 | 2022 / Scopus |
| h-Index | 78 | Scopus |
| Acceptance Rate | Not publicly disclosed | - |
These metrics highlight the journal's influence and selectivity, positioning it as a competitive choice for impactful research.
Indexing and Abstracting
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science is indexed in major databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, PsycINFO, and EBSCOhost. Additional coverage includes ProQuest, JSTOR, and Google Scholar. This comprehensive indexing facilitates citations and accessibility for researchers worldwide. For verification, visit the official journal homepage or check Scopus for detailed profiles.
Publication Model and Fees
As a hybrid journal from SAGE Publications, The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science offers both subscription-based and open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with articles behind a paywall unless institutional access is available. For open access, authors can pay an Article Processing Charge (APC) of $3,000 upon acceptance, making content freely available under a Creative Commons license. SAGE also provides waivers for authors from low-income countries. This model balances accessibility with sustainability, allowing researchers to choose based on funding and visibility needs.
Submission Process and Guidelines
Submissions are handled through SAGE's online portal, ScholarOne Manuscripts. Authors must prepare manuscripts according to APA style, with a maximum length of 10,000 words including references. Key guidelines include anonymized reviews, original work declarations, and ethical compliance. The process involves initial editorial screening, followed by double-blind peer review. Average time from submission to decision is 3-4 months. Detailed instructions are available on the official journal site. Prepare by reviewing sample articles to align with expectations.
Editorial Board Highlights
The editorial board features distinguished scholars from leading institutions. Editor-in-Chief David Coghlan, from Trinity College Dublin, brings expertise in action research and organizational learning. Associate Editors include specialists in diversity (e.g., from University of Michigan) and innovation (e.g., from Stanford). International representation ensures global perspectives, with members from Europe, Asia, and North America. Their collective experience guides the journal's direction, emphasizing methodological rigor and practical relevance.
Why Publish in The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science?
Publishing in The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science offers numerous advantages for researchers. Its solid impact factor enhances CVs and funding prospects. The journal's interdisciplinary audience broadens influence, connecting authors with diverse fields. Rigorous yet constructive feedback from reviewers strengthens manuscripts. Moreover, SAGE's marketing promotes articles through social media and alerts, increasing downloads and citations. For career advancement, consider how such publications pair with opportunities on higher ed jobs platforms.
Comparison with Similar Journals
| Journal | Impact Factor | Focus | Publisher |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science | 2.917 | Applied behavioral interventions in organizations | SAGE |
| Journal of Organizational Behavior | 5.456 | Individual and group behavior in work settings | Wiley |
| Human Relations | 4.123 | Socio-psychological analysis of organizations | SAGE |
| Organization Science | 4.789 | Behavioral and structural aspects of organizations | INFORMS |
| Academy of Management Journal | 10.889 | Empirical research on management and organizations | Academy of Management |
This comparison illustrates The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science's niche in practical applications, distinguishing it from more theoretical peers.
Researcher Tips for Successful Submission
- Ensure your research addresses a clear gap in applied behavioral science, with strong theoretical grounding.
- Use mixed methods where appropriate to demonstrate real-world impact.
- Craft an engaging abstract that highlights novelty and implications.
- Seek feedback from colleagues before submitting to refine arguments.
- Follow guidelines meticulously to avoid desk rejection.
- After acceptance, leverage the journal's network for future collaborations, such as those listed on academic calendar events.
Incorporate these strategies to boost acceptance chances and contribute meaningfully to the field.