How to write effective reviews for the Journal of Pediatric Psychology.

The quality of editorial reviews is critical to the success of any scholarly journal, and the Journal of Pediatric Psychology (JPP) is no exception. Reviewers generously volunteer their time and intellectual energy to provide critiques of manuscripts that serve the critical function of enhancing the quality of science that is published in JPP (Drotar, 2008a). Under tight timelines and in the context of multiple responsibilities, reviewers are asked to assume the difficult task of reviewing manuscripts that are often complex and detailed. Based on my experience over the past 2 years as editor of JPP, previous experience as managing editor, and feedback from JPP’s associate editors, here are some suggestions to enhance the utility and quality of your reviews. Reviewers should also consult the JPP website (www.jpepsy.oxfordjournals.org) for specific guidelines concerning reviews as well as other relevant published sources (Drotar, 2000; Goldbeck-Wood, 1998; Hyman, 1995).