title: Qualitative research in psychology: Could William James get a job?
abstract: Considering the case of William James, the author examines the likelihood of a successful career as a qualitative researcher in contemporary U.S. psychology. Fifty-seven journals affiliated with the American Psychological Association or its divisions were analyzed to show the place of qualitative research in U.S. psychology over the past 50 years. Journal abstracts, mission statements, and a short e-mail questionnaire from editors were used to understand patterns and trends in qualitative research in U.S. psychology. Editors are generally accepting of qualitative work, although mission statements do not always signal likely interest in qualitative work. The amount of qualitative work published is comparably low, but patterns of increased publication are found in some journals. Trends in methodologies, topics of research, and ways in which qualitative research enters journals over time are discussed. Suggestions for the publication of qualitative work are provided.
authors.affiliation: Winthrop University.
authors.forename: Carol
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Marchel
authors.affiliation: Roots & Wings Community School.
authors.forename: Stephanie
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Owens
mesh_terms: D015706:Bibliometrics; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D049674:History, 21st Century; D010506:Periodicals as Topic / Q000266:history / Q000639:trends*; D011584:Psychology / Q000266:history* / Q000639:trends; D036301:Qualitative Research; D014481:United States