Communication research in scientific journals in Spain (2005-2015). From theoretical disquisitions to evidence-based research

During the last decade, a growing number of scholars have evaluated the scientific progress of communication studies from a longitudinal and descriptive perspective, preventing a holistic understanding of the most relevant associations occurred in the discipline. Through a content analysis of 11 Spanish journals in communication, this article explores the probability of producing empirical science according to seven criteria: number of years, public funding, the journal, and the research topic, the number of authors and the gender and geographical origin of the authors. In general, the findings demonstrate a slow but continuous process to rule out non-evidence-based research from the most important spaces for academic diffusion and the growth of empirical research, especially through techniques such as content analysis. In conclusion, the culture and research practice in communication in Spain evolves towards international standards.