What is a common drawback associated with open access journals?

The choice of lower impact factors as a common drawback associated with open access journals reflects a frequently observed trend in scholarly publishing. Impact factor is a measure of how often articles in a journal are cited, and many open access journals, especially newer or less established ones, might struggle with acquiring high citation rates in comparison to well-established subscription-based journals. This can be attributable to several factors, including the potential lack of rigorous peer review processes in some open access journals, as they may prioritize accessibility over comprehensive evaluation. Consequently, this can lead to a perception among researchers that articles published in such journals may not have the same level of prestige, visibility, or scholarly impact as those in more traditional journals.

While higher publication fees and slower peer review times can certainly be associated with some open access models, the specific concern regarding the impact factor directly addresses the perceived quality and academic reputation of the research published in these journals. Understanding the implications of a journal's impact factor can influence where researchers choose to publish, as they often seek out venues that enhance the visibility and credibility of their work.