Bibliometric Analysis of Latin Dance Research: Evolution and Trends

Abstract

Introduction: This study applies bibliometric methods to analyse 853 papers on Latin dance in the field of sports, covering publications in the Web of Science database from 1989 to 2024. The aim was to identify development trends, research focuses, and collaboration patterns within this domain. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using quantitative indicators such as publication trends, country and institutional distributions, thematic clusters, and co-authorship networks. Data were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection, and analyses were performed using Bibliometrix. Results: The results indicate steady growth in this field, with the United States and the United Kingdom maintaining leading positions, while countries such as China and South Korea have shown rapid development in recent years. Research has mainly focused on 2 themes: dance therapy for psychological intervention and sports rehabilitation for elderly health, with recent extensions to topics such as Down syndrome intervention and cultural identity. Collaboration networks reveal a core–periphery structure centred on leading scholars, with limited participation from developing countries. Conclusions: Overall, Latin dance research has established a preliminary framework in health promotion and psychological healing, with growing global participation.Further work is required to strengthen cross-cultural perspectives, refine intervention mechanisms, and enhance international cooperation.