Mapping The Social Structure Of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder: A Bibliometric Study

Abstract

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with significant implications for affected individuals, particularly children, who are at risk for adverse outcomes such as academic underachievement, social conflicts, and difficulties with authority figures. This study undertakes a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of ADHD research to map the intellectual and social structure of the field. By analysing 1,102 publications from the Scopus database, the study examines publication trends, identifies leading contributors, and evaluates the consistency of research findings with established bibliometric laws, such as Bradford's and Lotka's Laws. The analysis reveals a substantial increase in ADHD research over time, with peaks in publication activity occurring in 2020 and 2023. Key contributors include prolific authors, high-impact journals, and leading institutions, predominantly from developed nations. The findings suggest that ADHD research is characterized by a high level of international collaboration, though it remains concentrated in a limited number of core journals and among a few prolific authors. The study also identifies deviations from traditional bibliometric laws, highlighting the unique and interdisciplinary nature of ADHD research. The results of this bibliometric analysis provide valuable insights into the current state of ADHD research and its future directions. The study underscores the importance of continued international collaboration and the need for more comprehensive and high-quality research contributions to advance the understanding and treatment of ADHD. Additionally, the analysis informs the development of evidence-based policies and guidelines, aiding clinicians, researchers, and policymakers in addressing the challenges posed by ADHD. Future research should expand the scope of analysis to include additional databases and explore methodology-based and theory-based reviews to further enrich the field. This study contributes to the existing literature by offering a detailed overview of the ADHD research landscape, identifying key trends, and providing a foundation for future scholarly inquiry and clinical practice.