Gamification Research for Autistic People: A Scientometric Analysis and Scoping Review

Abstract

Gamification for autistic people is an emerging area of research. However, the existing literature, developed over just a little more than a decade, remains insufficiently mapped and understood by the academic community. To address this gap, we conducted a scientometric analysis combined with a scoping review. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework to conduct the study. Key themes, types of interventions, and publication venues were identified, along with trends in publication activity, major contributors, and prevailing methodological designs. The findings highlight the need for future international and interdisciplinary collaborations, the conduct of longitudinal studies, and a stronger emphasis on knowledge translation and practical impact. Our study contributes to the fields of mental health and gamification by tracing the evolution of gamification research for autistic people over time and by offering insights to guide future developments in the field.