Bibliometric Analysis of Social Work Studies Published in WoS from Turkey.

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to conduct a bibliometric analysis of publications affiliated with Turkey in the Social Work category of the Web of Science (WoS) database. The analysis focuses on thematic trends, publication dynamics and collaboration networks over the last four decades.

Materials and methods: Data were retrieved from the WoS Core Collection on 26 December 2024. Search was conducted using the "Social Work" category filter, with country affiliation limited to Turkey. Only articles and review papers were included. A total of 504 publications by 1,372 authors were analyzed using MS Excel, VOSviewer and Bibliometrix. Following bibliometric indicators were examined: publication year, journal distribution, keyword frequency, author collaboration.

Results: There has been a marked increase in publication output since 2019. The most frequently used publication outlets were "Children and Youth Services Review," "Journal of Social Service Research" and "Social Work in Public Health Journal." Frequently used keywords included "health," "mental health," "depression," and "adolescents." Institutional and international collaboration patterns revealed that the most active partnerships were with the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

Discussion: The findings suggest a growing thematic focus on mental health, child welfare, and psychosocial issues, particularly during and after the pandemic. While methodological themes remain underrepresented, international collaboration and thematic diversity have increased.

Conclusion: Turkey-affiliated social work research is increasingly being integrated into global scholarship. There has been notable progress in thematic scope and international collaboration. However, methodological diversification remains a key area for future development.