Research articles that empirically study communication behavior in applied settings are especially appropriate if the rationale for study is developed from existing theory and research, and if the implications of the results provide both practical value and promote heuristic thought. Studies that take special care to ensure a high level of external validity are particularly valued. The journal also welcomes discussion articles and commentaries that survey and critically evaluate certain areas of applied communication research. Submissions of this type must advance substantial arguments for how applied research can be enhanced by improved efforts for problem identification, systematic inquiry, and methodological advancement, and by diffusing implications to a wider audience. Policy studies or essays that influence social, political, or governmental strategy are strongly encouraged. JACR may hold the most promise as a publication outlet for bridging the gap between academic research and entities that influence and formulate policies affecting rules, regulations, and funding pertaining to communication behavior. Therefore, submissions that make persuasive arguments for targeted audiences who shape or influence policy directly influencing communication in society are strongly encouraged. Manuscripts employing theoretical and methodological approaches from a wide range of perspectives are welcome. However, submissions involving literature reviews or descriptive accounts without strong theoretical underpinnings would not be appropriate.

JACR observes a policy of blind, peer review. Manuscripts whose content and approach are within the scope of the journal will be reviewed by two or three expert referees. Manuscripts must not identify the author(s) anywhere in the text. Upon submission, authors should guarantee that the manuscript is original, and has not been published in other publication outlets and that the manuscript is not under review elsewhere. In accordance with NCA policy, all sources of supporting material must be properly acknowledged and individuals who have had a significant influence on the formulation of the material must be identified. Substantive student contributions should be acknowledged.

All elements of the manuscript must confonn to the fourth edition of the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (1994). Four copies of the manuscript must be submitted along with a title page that contains the manuscript title, names, institutional affiliations, addresses (including e-mail) , and telephone numbers of all authors. Submissions must also include an abstract of no more than 120 words on a separate page. Research articles and policy studies/essays must not exceed 25 pages (excluding references, tables, figures, and appendixes). Commentaries should be no longer than ten pages. Manuscripts will not be returned.