A decade review of publications in Families, Systems, & Health: 2005-2015

The purpose of this investigation was to review recent publication content and trends in Families, Systems, & Health (FSH). How do the journal’s articles reflect current and emerging challenges in health care? We hope that our findings can guide special issues and content foci.

All work published in FSH between 2005 and 2015 was included (n = 452); each piece was coded for article type, general foci, and specific foci.

The most common type of article published over the 10-year time frame was research reports (43%; n = 195), followed by other types (e.g., tribute pieces, poems), commentaries, conceptual/theory papers, literature reviews, and case studies. The most common general focus included family health and/or functioning (28%; n = 128). The most common specific foci centered on children (15%; n = 55). Common themes found in FSH’s most frequently cited publications included family relationships in care, chronic physical illnesses, and mental health. Marked trends in journal content included increases in articles targeting family health and/or functioning and primary care and decreased attention to theory.

FSH’s emphasis on research reports to inform current and evolving interventions that target contemporary health challenges suggests that the journal is keeping stride with the most pressing issues in health care today. Future special issues can continue to serve and meet these needs. FSH’s robust inclusion of other article types sustains the journal’s mission to advance multiple ways of understanding health-care phenomena.