Mapping Global Research on Adolescent Bullying: A Bibliometric Analysis Using Scopus Database (2020–2025)

Abstract

Background: Bullying among adolescents is a global public health concern with significant mental health and educational consequences. In recent years, research output in this field has increased substantially, warranting a systematic mapping of global scholarly trends. Objective: This study aimed to analyze global research trends, productivity patterns, collaboration networks, and thematic focus areas in adolescent bullying research published between 2020 and 2025. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using data retrieved from the Scopus database. Publications published in English between 2020 and 2025 were included. Bibliometric indicators related to publication growth, author productivity, institutional and country contributions, citation impact, co-authorship networks, and keyword co-occurrence were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and VOSviewer. Results: The analysis revealed a steady increase in publications, with a peak in 2023. The United States, United Kingdom, and China were the most productive countries. Research output was concentrated in high-income countries and leading academic institutions. Keyword co-occurrence analysis identified three major thematic clusters: school-based contexts and prevention strategies, victimization including cyberbullying, and mental health outcomes. Conclusion: Research on adolescent bullying has expanded considerably in recent years; however, significant geographical disparities persist. Greater international collaboration and increased contributions from underrepresented regions are needed to develop culturally responsive bullying prevention strategies.