A Bibliometric Landscape of Social-Emotional Learning Publications over the Past Decades

Authors

• Ziye Yang, Universiti Malaya
• Shigang Ge, Guangzhou Institute of Science and Technology
• Amira Najiha Yahya, Universiti Malaya
• Azni Yati Kamaruddin, Universiti Malaya
• Pei Yang, Universiti Malaya
• Hanyuan Zhang, Universiti Malaya

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

3-1-2026

Abstract

Social-emotional learning (SEL) has emerged as a prominent area of global academic research, particularly within the fields of education and psychology. This review paper conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to map the global research landscape of SEL initiatives. Bibliometric data were retrieved from the Web of Science (WoS) database from 1973 to 2025. Data analysis was conducted using Bibliometrix and VOSviewer. The study identified the major research forces and collaboration patterns, and provided insights into the intellectual structure, thematic focus, and emerging trends in this field. Keyword co-occurrence analysis revealed five central research areas: (1) early childhood development and intervention, (2) integration of SEL into educational contexts, (3) adolescent mental health and well-being, (4) systematic evaluation of SEL programs, and (5) program implementation and impact. Suggestions for future research were derived from the current findings.

Publication Title

School Mental Health

ISSN

18662625

DOI

10.1007/s12310-025-09828-0

Recommended Citation

Yang, Ziye; Ge, Shigang; Yahya, Amira Najiha; Kamaruddin, Azni Yati; Yang, Pei; and Zhang, Hanyuan, "A Bibliometric Landscape of Social-Emotional Learning Publications over the Past Decades" (2026). Research Publications (2026 to 2030). 175.
https://knova.um.edu.my/research_publications_2026_2030/175

Volume

18

Issue

1

First Page

1