Mapping the global research on feeding and eating disorders and autism spectrum disorder (2014-2023): a bibliometric and network analysis

Abstract

Objective: This study maps the global research landscape on feeding and eating disorders (FEDs) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Method: We used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), bibliometrics, and network analyses to assess 199 peer-reviewed articles from the Web of Science Core Collection, published between 2014 and 2023. Results: The results show an annual publication increase, especially in the last three years. The Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders and the European Eating Disorders Review were the main publishers. Anorexia Nervosa, Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, food selectivity, mealtime behaviors, parents, children, and females are among the most cited keywords. The main Research Areas were Psychology and Psychiatry, and Pediatrics and Psychology were the most central nodes of the network. The United Kingdom and the United States of America lead in publications and are the most central nodes in the network. King’s College London (KCL) and South London & Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust lead the ranking of organizations, with KCL as the most central node in the network. Conclusions: Our study indicates a growing interest in research related to FEDs and ASD. The global landscape of research produced over the last ten years offers insights for future studies and interinstitutional collaborations.