Media Use: A Developmental Perspective Using the Bibliometric Approach

Abstract This bibliometric analysis examines research trends, thematic developments, and collaborative patterns in the study of digital media use among children and adolescents over the past decade. By leveraging comprehensive searches within the Web of Science database, the study identifies a dynamic and rapidly evolving field, evidenced by a high annual growth rate and a predominance of recently published works. Key research themes center on mental health— particularly depression and anxiety—social media engagement, screen time, and the behavioral and developmental impacts of digital technologies. The analysis highlights a shift from broad associative studies to more nuanced investigations addressing underlying mechanisms, population-specific effects, and methodological rigor. The network of authorship demonstrates a strong collaborative culture, marked by large research teams and a low proportion of single-authored publications, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary approaches. Pivotal studies, including influential systematic reviews, have shaped the direction of inquiry and established foundational knowledge. Limitations include reliance on a single database and potential citation lag for recent publications. The findings underscore the need for continued monitoring of emerging trends, incorporation of diverse data sources, and qualitative insights to capture the complexity of digital media’s impact on youth well-being.