A scientometric analysis of music therapy in pediatrics settings globally: Research trends, collaboration networks, and emerging topics (2000–2024)

Music therapy (MT) has emerged as an effective non-pharmacological intervention for enhancing emotional regulation, social communication, and neurocognitive function in children. This study provides the first comprehensive scientometric analysis of global MT research trends in pediatric settings. Analyzing 1,383 publications from Web of Science, we employed co-citation networks, keyword clustering, and burst detection to: 1) map international collaboration networks, 2) track thematic evolution, and 3) identify emerging frontiers. Results reveal exponential growth since 2010, peaking in 2022, with the U.S., U.K., and Australia as leading contributors. Core research clusters focus on autism spectrum disorder, pediatric anxiety, and pain management, while cutting-edge domains include AI-assisted MT, computational modeling, and neuroplasticity-based interventions. The field shows a paradigm shift from generalized approaches to precision therapies, particularly in pediatric oncology, neonatal care, and neurodevelopmental rehabilitation. Key institutions like Aalborg University and University of Toronto anchor collaborative networks. This analysis not only delineates the intellectual structure of pediatric MT research but also provides empirical guidance for future studies, clinical applications, and cross-disciplinary innovation in this rapidly evolving field. The findings highlight MT's growing scientific validation and its transition toward technology-integrated, evidence-based practices in child healthcare.