National and gender diversity in communication: A content analysis of six journals between 2006 and 2016

Abstract

ABSTRACT Researchers’ national and gender diversity are some of the most important goals of our discipline in order to ensure the representation of diverse perspectives. We conducted a content analysis of the national and gender diversity of authors and editorial board members of six communication journals between 2006 and 2016. National diversity is low in journals and boards: 80% of the 18,175 authors are affiliated with 12 of the 91 nations. Gender distribution is balanced among US authors, but not among authors from other continents. Boards have significantly more male than female members. We will discuss the need to develop benchmarks, how to weigh research quality and diversity, and suggest measures to achieve diversity in academic associations, universities and research institutions.