Bibliometric Analysis on Martial Arts-based Interventions for Positive Youth Development

Abstract

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of research on martial arts-based interventions promoting positive youth development. The objective is to map the scholarly output, identify key trends, and highlight influential works and authors in this field. Data were collected from the Scopus database, encompassing publications from the past two decades. Forty-six articles were identified and analyzed using VOSviewer to visualize co-authorship networks, keyword co-occurrences, and citation patterns. The findings reveal a steady increase in the number of publications over the years, indicating a growing interest in the role of martial arts in fostering youth development. The analysis identified several prominent authors and institutions contributing significantly to this research area. Key emerging themes include the psychological benefits of martial arts, such as improved self-esteem, self-discipline, emotional regulation, and social benefits, like enhanced teamwork and respect for others. The study also highlights geographic trends, showing that most research originates from North America and Europe, with a rising contribution from Asian countries in recent years. Furthermore, the citation analysis underscored a few seminal works that have shaped the current understanding of martial arts as a tool for positive youth development. In conclusion, this bibliometric analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the academic landscape surrounding martial arts-based interventions for youth. The insights gained can guide future research directions and inform policymakers and practitioners about the potential of martial arts to contribute to holistic youth development. This study underscores the importance of continued exploration and interdisciplinary collaboration to fully leverage martial arts in nurturing the next generation's physical, mental, and social well-being.