Perspectives

Abstract

Since I am starting a new “Perspectives” column, I suppose it is befitting that I write the first article for the column to describe my viewpoint as Editor of the Journal. I’ve had the privilege of serving as Editor for nearly two years and I regularly think about how to improve the Journal. I am creating this new column series to feature first-person narratives or unique perspectives on work related to social distress and homelessness. Most of the regular articles in the Journal describe studies with quantitative or qualitative data, which of course is important, but they often are not the right venue for more personal notes or broad viewpoints about the field which also have their value for the field. As a first article for this column, I will write from my perspective as a Journal Editor in what lessons I have learned that I think are important to share with others. Specifically, I will describe several things I look for as an Editor/Reviewer and lessons I have learned through submitting my own work for peer-reviewed publication. In addition to my Editorship on this Journal, I have served on the Editorial Board of seven other journals and have reviewed for various other journals as well so I bring those experiences to bare in describing my perspective.