SOC - Sociology Research Guide

Articles published in periodicals (journals, newspapers, and magazines) can provide a narrower focus or perspective on specific aspects of your topic. It is useful to understand the purpose, authority, and identifying features of different types of periodicals.

Journals

• Report original research and criticism
• Published by professional associations to benefit those working in the field or discipline
• Many articles are reviewed by other experts in the subject area (peer-review)
• Articles are often lengthy and provide citations

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Newspapers

• Focus on current events and news
• Not usually considered scholarly or professional, but may be only source of information on very new topics

Magazines

• Focus on popular or current topics
• Articles are often shorter and written for a general audience
• Typically written by journalists