Mapping One Decade of Identity Studies: A Comprehensive Bibliometric Analysis of Global Trends and Scholarly Impact

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of identity studies over the past decade, focusing on global trends and scholarly impact. Identity is defined as a dynamic concept that reflects how individuals and groups construct their sense of self within diverse social, cultural, and political contexts. Using the Scopus database, this research analyzed 18,399 publications from 2013 to 2024, spanning multiple disciplines such as sociology, anthropology, and digital cultural studies. This study identified leading authors, collaboration patterns, and thematic evolutions within identity research, highlighted through citation analysis and network visualization. The findings reveal significant contributions from Western countries, particularly the United States and the United Kingdom, in shaping the global discourse on identity. Key topics frequently explored include social identity, cultural identity, and the influence of globalization. Additionally, emerging themes such as identity in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and racial disparities are highlighted. This bibliometric analysis provides insights into global collaboration, research productivity, and the intellectual contributions of prominent scholars. Utilizing R software and the Bibliometric package, this study offers a deep understanding of the dynamics of identity research and suggests future directions to further explore the formation, negotiation, and expression of identity in an increasingly globalized world.

Access to Document

Other files and links

• Link to publication in Scopus
• Open Access Version Available

Fingerprint