A Mixed Methods Analysis of Methodological Orientation in National and Regional Criminology and Criminal Justice Journals

The current study uses a mixed methods design to examine the so-called methodological divide in criminology and criminal justice and the extent to which mixed methods are being employed within the discipline. The authors content analyzed research articles from two national and four regional journals to determine the type and frequency of various methodologies. A sample of journal article authors was then surveyed to gain a better understanding of the methodological and publication pressures experienced by researchers. Findings indicate that although quantitative methods still dominate, the use of mixed methods appears to be increasing. Differences between national and regional journals are also discussed.