Behavioral science researchers rely heavily on high-quality journals to publish their findings, stay updated on the latest developments, and engage with the scientific community. Choosing the right journals can elevate research visibility and impact. Here’s a guide to some of the top psychology journals in 2025, ideal for behavioral science scholars.
Current Research in Behavioral Sciences
Published by Elsevier, Current Research in Behavioral Sciences is a leading open-access journal focusing on novel, high-impact behavioral science research with a quantitative and scientific depth perspective. It covers diverse topics including cognition, emotion, motivation, personality, social sciences, genetics, and methodological advances. The journal offers fast peer review and high discoverability on a global platform, making it a top choice for researchers aiming for broad visibility.
The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science (JABS)
JABS is a prestigious quarterly journal emphasizing the effects of evolutionary and planned change in group dynamics, organizational development, and social change. It is renowned for its rigorous peer-review process and multidisciplinary audience, publishing cutting-edge research that bridges theory and application in behavioral science. Its sections include methodology and practitioner corners, catering to both scholars and applied professionals.
Frontiers in Psychology
With a substantial impact factor, Frontiers in Psychology is highly respected for its openness and quality. It publishes across a broad range of psychological disciplines, from clinical research and cognitive science to social psychology and neuropsychology. The journal emphasizes research integrity and employs AI to uphold high standards in peer review. It is a community-driven platform with editorial board members worldwide, ideal for behavioral scientists seeking rigorous scientific dissemination.
Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science (JPBS)
This interdisciplinary journal publishes empirical and theoretical articles that integrate psychology with other fields such as law, consumer behavior, and religion. The JPBS journals have rigorous peer review and provide early online publication (E-Publication First), enhancing the timely dissemination of research. It is notable for its broad scope and international reach, supporting various behavioral science subfields.
Psychology and Behavioral Science International Journal (PBSIJ)
PBSIJ is a multidisciplinary open-access journal focusing on mind, behavioral changes, mental functions, and related physiological processes. It promotes culturally inclusive, contextually informed psychological science aimed at improving public welfare globally. The journal accepts a variety of article types, providing a platform for diverse research with social and educational implications.
Other Noteworthy Journals
In addition to the above, journals such as Trends in Cognitive Sciences, Behavioral and Brain Sciences, and Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews are highly ranked for behavioral science research with strong citation metrics and wide readership, particularly for cognitive and neuroscientific approaches within psychology.
FAQ
Q: Which journal is best for quantitative behavioral science research?
A: Current Research in Behavioral Sciences is tailored for quantitative and data-driven behavioral science research with fast open-access publication.
Q: Where can I find applied behavioral science research focusing on organizations?
A: The Journal of Applied Behavioral Science excels in organizational and social change topics, blending theory and practice.
Q: Which journal offers rapid online publication?
A: Journal of Psychology & Behavioral Science provides “E-Publication First,” enabling early access to peer-reviewed articles.
Q: Are there open-access options among top behavioral science journals?
A: Yes, Current Research in Behavioral Sciences, Frontiers in Psychology, and PBSIJ all offer open-access publishing.
Q: How important is multidisciplinary scope in these journals?
A: Highly important as behavioral science intersects with many fields; journals like JPBS and PBSIJ emphasize interdisciplinary approaches.
