Global research on cognitive behavioural therapy for schizophrenia from 2000 to 2019: a bibliometric analysis via CiteSpace

Background Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is considered to be an effective treatment for schizophrenia. In recent years, researchers have published clinical research results on CBT for schizophrenia. However, there is currently a lack of bibliometric analysis on CBT for schizophrenia.Aims To understand the current situation and research trends of CBT for schizophrenia, and to provide valuable information for researchers in this field.Methods Literature was retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace was used to visually analyse the current status of research on CBT for schizophrenia, as well as trends and points of general interest on this topic.Results A total of 1151 papers were retrieved. The annual number of publications has increased 417.65% from 2000 to 2019. Schizophrenia Research was the most active journal. McGorry enjoys considerable influence. The University of London is deemed to be the most active research institution. England and the USA retain the highest scientific productivity in this field. China and Norway might make more contributions to this field in the future. The most important research topics are randomised controlled trials of CBT for schizophrenia, meta-analysis, scale selection and research on the improvement of quality of life. Results from the following keywords ‘psychoeducation’, ‘insomnia’, ‘individual’, ‘mental illness’, ‘major depressive disorder’, ‘efficacy’, ‘internalised stigma’ and ‘remediation’ indicated new research frontiers in this field.Conclusions The field of CBT for schizophrenia is progressing and has great potential. The level and quality of research in this field is high. The proposal of research hotspots and frontiers serves as a direction for researchers in this field. Researchers around the world should strengthen their cooperation and communication to promote further development of this field.