Abstract
This article evaluates the limitations of using citation indexes as research tools in communication studies, particularly when ranking journals, departments, or individual scholars. It examines how the omission of five major communication journals from widely used indexes distorts the visibility and influence of scholarship in the field. Through an analysis of citations to articles published in leading association journals, the study finds that approximately one third of all citations originate from journals not included in citation databases. These omissions reduce the effectiveness of citation indexes for literature searches, bibliometric studies, and faculty evaluation. The article advocates for the inclusion of overlooked journals in citation indexes and encourages disciplinary associations to develop strategies for recovering missing citation data. By highlighting the structural gaps in current indexing systems, this article contributes to broader discussions in scholarly communication, research evaluation, and information access within the communication discipline.
Recommended Citation
Funkhouser, Edward
(1989)
"Problems with the Use of Citation Indexes in Communication Research,"
Association for Communication Administration Bulletin: Vol. 69, Article 15.
Available at:
https://stars.library.ucf.edu/aca/vol69/iss1/15
