Keyword Network Analysis of Research Trends on Social Skills in Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Using

This study used keyword network analysis to explore research trends in social skills among Koreans with developmental disabilities. A total of 554 articles published between 2000 and July 2024 were analyzed, resulting in 898 keywords. NetMiner was used to examine general research trends and the frequency and network of major keywords. The findings were as follows: First, frequently occurring keywords included “autism spectrum disorder,” “communication,” and “interaction.” TF-IDF analysis highlighted “children with autism,” “augmentative and alternative communication systems,” and “problem behavior.” Second, “autism spectrum disorder” and “communication” showed high centrality. Keywords like “children with autism” and “communication” emerged as central over time. Third, topic modeling indicated that peer relationships, problem behaviors, and communication-related interventions were key themes in studies related to social skills in individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as autism spectrum disorder. These findings suggest directions for further research on the social skills of Koreans with developmental disabilities.