Bibliometric Analysis of Adaptive Behavior Research: Advancing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Children with Disabilities
Authors: Ishak Hamzah , Matore Mohd Effendi Ewan Mohd , Nor Hilwa Abdullah Mohd 
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Adaptive behavior refers to the collection of skills and behaviors that individuals use to function independently in their daily lives, it encompasses the ability to meet personal needs and deal with the natural and social demands of one's environment. This includes a wide range of skills, such as communication, self-care, socialization, and practical skills needed to navigate one's environment. This is useful in providing references to support Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) initiatives, especially to improve access to quality education for children with disabilities.

Objective: This study conducts a bibliometric analysis of research on adaptive behavior for children with disabilities from 2014 to 2024. It focuses on identifying patterns, trends, and gaps in the literature to understand the evolution and current state of the field.

Theorical Framework: Adaptive behavior is often categorized into different domains, reflecting the various areas of functioning that are essential for independent living and social integration. The three primary domains of adaptive behavior commonly recognized in the literature are conceptual, practical and social domain.

Method: The study employs advanced bibliometric techniques, including keyword co-occurrence and citation analysis, to explore the interconnectedness of topics and to forecast future directions in research. It underscores the critical need for reliable and inclusive assessment tools, comprehensive multi-informant evaluations, and interventions that can be integrated into educational settings to support the independence and social integration of children with disabilities.

Results and Discussion: The findings of the study through article co-occurrence mapping analysis, four clusters representing adaptive behavior were identified, that is red cluster (psychological and social dimensions), green cluster (developmental and cognitive aspects of disability), blue cluster (adaptive functioning and behavioral outcomes) and yellow cluster (behavioral and diagnostic) portrays an interconnected landscape of research topics, where psychological, developmental, behavioral, and diagnostic themes converge, reflecting the complexity and interdisciplinary nature of research in disabilities.

Research Implications: This study contributes practical implications, improving interventions, informing policies, and enhancing community understanding and support for individuals with varying needs in adaptive behavior. This holistic impact underscores the importance of such research in driving both theoretical and practical advancements in the field.

Originality/Value: The exploration of adaptive behavior in children with disabilities has emerged as a critical area of study, integrating multifaceted approaches from diagnosis to intervention. The comprehensive review presented in this article not only captures the varied dimensions of adaptive behavior but also underscores the intricate interplay between intellectual, developmental, and social facets of disabilities in children.