A Bibliometric Analysis on Gated Community

Gated communities have become a prominent feature of contemporary urban landscapes worldwide, embodying complex socio-economic, cultural, and environmental dynamics [1]. These enclosed residential developments, characterized by controlled access and often exclusive amenities, have garnered significant scholarly attention due to their implications for urban planning, social segregation, and community dynamics [2]. Understanding the evolution, characteristics, and impacts of gated communities is crucial for addressing the challenges and opportunities they present in contemporary urban environments [3].

The significance of the issue under study regarding gated communities deals with their influence on the contemporary urban structure and social relations at the planetary level. The rise of gated communities illustrates a large-scale transformation in urban form and social organization related to broader socio-economic trends and shifts in cultural practices. These enclaves, known for access controls and frequently elevated levels of security, have transformed the order of urban space and the organization of spatial segregation and changed structures in land use planning and neighborhood dynamics. The analysis of gated community expansion and diffusion is highly relevant to debates on social inequality, spatial justice, and sustainable urban development. In addition, investigating gated communities yields insights into broader issues surrounding governance, public-private interactions, and the process of urban space commodification. Thus, this research topic is relevant not only to urban planners, policymakers, and academics but also to the general public.

Despite the growing interest in gated communities, there remains a need for a comprehensive analysis of the scholarly landscape surrounding this phenomenon. While individual studies offer valuable insights, a bibliometric analysis provides a systematic and holistic perspective on the extent, trends, and interdisciplinary nature of research in this field. By mapping the scholarly output, identifying research gaps, and elucidating emerging trends, such an analysis can guide future research endeavors and contribute to a nuanced understanding of gated communities’ complexities.

While some studies have explored specific aspects of gated communities, such as their social dynamics or environmental impacts, a gap exists in comprehensively synthesizing and analyzing the broader scholarly landscape. Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of research on gated communities necessitates a holistic approach integrating insights from diverse disciplinary perspectives, including Social Sciences, Environmental Science, Engineering, and others. Bridging these disciplinary boundaries can enrich our understanding of gated communities and facilitate more effective responses to the challenges they pose.

Addressing these research gaps requires conducting a bibliometric analysis of publications on gated communities. The aim is to identify interdisciplinary collaborations, evaluate the role of academic institutions and researchers, illuminate the extent and trends of scholarly output, and identify research gaps and emerging areas of interest within the field. The study aims to provide a roadmap for future research endeavors and interdisciplinary engagement by filling these gaps, ultimately contributing to a nuanced understanding of gated communities’ complexities.

Based on the background and research gaps, the research questions are formulated as follows:

1. What are the patterns of interdisciplinary collaboration and the distribution of research output across different academic disciplines in gated community research, and how do they provide insights into the multidimensional nature of this field?

2. How do academic institutions and researchers, including yourselves, contribute to producing and disseminating knowledge in gated community research? Which institutions and researchers are identified as critical hubs of scholarly activity and collaboration, highlighting your invaluable role in this process?

3. What are the extent and trends of literary output in gated communities, and which thematic areas and emerging research trajectories are highlighted in this work?

4. What are the existing research gaps and emerging areas of interest within the field of gated communities, and how can this information provide a roadmap for future research endeavors and interdisciplinary engagement?

Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to conduct a bibliometric analysis of publications on gated communities, aiming to:

1. Identify interdisciplinary collaborations and the distribution of research output across different academic disciplines, providing insights into the multidimensional nature of gated community research.

2. Evaluate the role of academic institutions and researchers in driving knowledge production and dissemination within the field, identifying critical hubs of scholarly activity and collaboration.

3. Illuminate the extent and trends of scholarly output in gated communities, highlighting vital thematic areas and emerging research trajectories.

4. Identify research gaps and emerging areas of interest within the field of gated communities, providing a roadmap for future research endeavors and interdisciplinary engagement.

By undertaking this bibliometric analysis, we aim to enhance our understanding of the current state of research on gated communities and provide guidance for future scholarly inquiry. Ultimately, this endeavor seeks to contribute to developing inclusive, sustainable, and vibrant urban communities in an ever-changing urban landscape.

The paper’s layout is structured as follows:

1. The paper will analyze the trends in publications about gated communities over time.

2. The paper will categorize the types of publications (e.g., journal articles, conference papers) to understand the mediums through which research is disseminated.

3. The paper will identify the various subject areas involved in gated community research to illustrate its interdisciplinary nature.

4. The paper will highlight the leading journals and platforms where gated community research is published.

5. The paper will analyze the geographical distribution of research, key institutions, and prominent authors in the field.

6. The paper will present Bibliometric Analysis with VOSviewer by mapping the co-authorship and collaboration networks among researchers, Showing the temporal evolution of research topics and trends, and identifying densely populated research areas to highlight famous and influential issues within the field.

The findings of this study present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of research on gated communities. This analysis includes several vital dimensions. Firstly, the paper examines the trends in publications on gated communities over time, highlighting how interest in this subject has evolved and identifying periods of significant research activity. Then, the analysis categorizes publications based on their type, such as journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters, providing insights into the preferred formats for disseminating research in this field. Publication by subject area that breaks down the research according to subject areas, revealing the interdisciplinary nature of studies on gated communities and the predominant fields contributing to this body of knowledge. Then, identify the leading journals and other platforms where research on gated communities is published, offering a perspective on the most influential outlets in this domain, and the geographical distribution of research is analyzed, alongside the affiliations of contributing authors and institutions. This part of the analysis highlights the global interest in gated communities and identifies vital research activity contributors and hubs.

By utilizing VOSviewer software, the paper performs an in-depth bibliometric analysis that includes Network visualization to map the co-authorship and citation networks, illustrating the collaborative landscape and the interconnections between researchers and their work. Then, overlay visualization of various bibliometric indicators on the network map, allowing for identifying trends and patterns over time, and Density visualization to visualization highlight areas of high research concentration, indicating the most intensively studied topics and prominent research clusters within the field of gated communities.

3.1 Exploring trends and characteristics of publications on “Gated Community”

Through an extensive search conducted within the Scopus database, a total of 471 articles were identified under the criteria of “Article Title” and “Search documents” being “Gated Community”. This count represents the indexed publications in Scopus from 1996 to May 2024.

Figure 2 illustrates a discernible upward trend in the number of publications concerning gated communities within the Scopus database. Beginning around 2007, there is a noticeable increase, albeit with minor fluctuations in subsequent years. However, the pinnacle of this trend occurs towards the end of 2023, indicating a remarkably significant surge in the volume of publications.

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Figure 2. Publication trends about gated community

Source: Elsevier B.V.

Figure 3 provides a comprehensive breakdown of the types of publications within the study’s domain. It reveals that peer-reviewed journal articles constitute the predominant form of publication, comprising a substantial 73.7% of the documents identified, amounting to 347 articles. This dominance underscores the significance of scholarly discourse and rigorous evaluation within academic circles, highlighting the depth of research and analysis conducted in this field.

Following journal articles, book chapters emerge as the second most prevalent form of publication, accounting for 15.7% of the total documents, totaling 74 chapters. This indicates a notable contribution from scholarly books and edited volumes in disseminating knowledge and insights related to gated community, potentially offering more expansive discussions and in-depth examinations of specific topics.

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Figure 3. Publication by type

Source: Elsevier B.V.

Conference papers occupy the third position, representing 4% of the documents identified in Scopus, with a count of 19 papers. While relatively fewer than journal articles and book chapters, conference papers serve as vital avenues for the presentation of preliminary findings, innovative methodologies, and ongoing research endeavors, facilitating knowledge exchange and scholarly discourse within academic conferences and symposiums.

The remaining publications, comprising a smaller proportion, encompass various formats such as books, reviews, editorials, notes, short surveys, and errata. Although these formats contribute to the scholarly landscape in different capacities, their relatively limited presence in the dataset suggests a narrower focus or specialized contributions within specific research niches related to gated communities.

The distribution of publication types, as depicted in Figure 3, showcases the myriad avenues through which research findings and insights are disseminated within the scholarly community. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights the multidimensional nature of academic discourse surrounding gated communities but also offers valuable insights into the dissemination patterns and scholarly output within the domain. It serves as a guidepost, facilitating a nuanced understanding of the research landscape and identifying potential areas for further exploration and inquiry.

Figure 4 provides detailed insight into the disciplinary distribution of publications on gated communities, shedding light on the interdisciplinary nature of research in this domain. The data reveals that asignificant majority of publications, accounting for 47.1% of the total documents indexed in Scopus, originate from Social Science. This dominance underscores the profound societal implications and socio-cultural dimensions associated with gated communities, reflecting a keen scholarly interest in understanding the dynamics of gated living environments, social segregation, and community dynamics.

Following closely behind, Environmental Science emerges as the second most prominent disciplinary domain, comprising 13.4% of the total documents, with 111 publications. This emphasizes the growing recognition of environmental considerations within the discourse surrounding gated communities, including land use patterns, ecological impacts, and sustainable development practices.

Engineering occupies the third position, contributing 9.9% of the total documents, encompassing 82 publications in Scopus. This highlights the technical aspects and infrastructural components associated with gated communities, such as design, construction, and maintenance of gated residential developments, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of research at the intersection of urban planning and engineering disciplines.

Additionally, a diverse array of disciplines, including Arts and Humanities, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Business, Management and Accounting, Psychology, Computer Science, Economics, Econometrics and Finance, Energy, and others, collectively contribute to the scholarly discourse on gated communities, albeit to a lesser extent. This interdisciplinary engagement reflects the multifaceted nature of gated living environments, necessitating insights from various fields to comprehensively understand the socio-economic, environmental, and cultural dimensions shaping these communities.

The disciplinary distribution depicted in Figure 4 underscores the interdisciplinary nature of research on gated communities, emphasizing the need for collaborative efforts across diverse academic disciplines to address the complex challenges and dynamics inherent in gated living environments. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the diverse scholarly perspectives and disciplinary lenses through which gated communities are studied, facilitating a nuanced understanding of the multifaceted nature of these residential spaces.

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Figure 4. Publication by subject area

Source: Elsevier B.V.

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Figure 5. Top platforms

Source: Elsevier B.V.

The analysis presented in this study reveals the primary platforms for publishing research related to gated communities, shedding light on the prominent journals that serve as critical avenues for disseminating scholarly insights and advancing knowledge in this field (see Figure 5).

At the forefront, Housing Studies, published by Taylor & Francis, emerges as the leading journal for publishing research on gated communities. This top position underscores the journal’s significant role in shaping scholarly discourse and facilitating rigorous inquiry into the multifaceted aspects of housing dynamics, urban development, and social inequalities within gated residential environments. Housing Studies’ commitment to fostering interdisciplinary dialogue and publishing high-quality research contributes to its prominence as a premier platform for researchers and practitioners interested in gated communities.

The second place is held by Cities journal, reaffirming its position as one of the most prominent outlets for scientific contribution on urban development studies, including issues regarding gated communities. The journal’s emphasis on urban issues, spatial dynamics, and socio-economic aspects within cities worldwide positions it as a vital platform to publish research findings and foster critical dialogue on urban issues.

Urban Studies, published by SAGE, occupies the third position, further underscoring the journal’s significance in urban studies and housing research. Urban Studies’ rigorous peer-review process, interdisciplinary approach, and global reach make it a preferred outlet for scholars exploring various aspects of urbanization, housing policies, and spatial inequalities, including research on gated communities.

Geojournal secures the fourth position, reflecting its role as a notable platform for publishing research at the intersection of geography, urban studies, and environmental sciences. The journal’s emphasis on spatial analysis, geographical perspectives, and socio-environmental dynamics provides researchers with a valuable outlet for disseminating findings related to gated communities and their broader spatial contexts.

Housing Policy Debate, who is in the fifth position, is a prominent forum for scholarly discussions and policy analysis related to various housing issues, including discourses on gated communities. The journal’s emphasis on housing policy, housing affordability, and housing justice highlights its practical relevance, making it an important source of knowledge for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners looking to address housing challenges and urban inequalities.

The findings shown in Figure 5 highlights the varied number of journals publishing studies on gated community. These journals play an imperative role in fostering interdisciplinary discussion, improving knowledge, and contribute to a comprehensive understanding of policy and practice in urban studies.

3.2 Global perspectives on researching gated community

Figure 6 presents a comprehensive overview of the global distribution of research output related to gated communities, focusing on publications in reputable international journals indexed in Scopus. The analysis reveals a notable concentration of scholarly contributions from various countries, reflecting the global significance and widespread interest in studying gated living environments.

The United States leads the pack as the top contributor to research output on gated communities, underscoring its prominent role in shaping scholarly discourse and knowledge production in this field. This dominance highlights the robust research infrastructure, academic expertise, and institutional support available within the United States, facilitating extensive research endeavors and publications on gated communities.

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Figure 6. Publication by country

Source: Elsevier B.V.

The United Kingdom, securing the second position, demonstrates not just significant scholarly output but also active participation in gated community research. This reflects the UK’s academic prowess and its commitment to addressing the socio-economic, cultural, and environmental dimensions of gated living environments, thereby contributing valuable insights to the global discourse on the subject.

China, occupying the third position, is a notable player in the study of gated communities, showcasing a growing interest and research activity. This is a direct response to the rapid urbanization and socio-economic transformations occurring in China, which have spurred scholarly attention toward understanding the proliferation, impacts, and governance of gated residential developments within the Chinese context.

Canada secures the fourth position, indicating a substantial contribution to the scholarly literature on gated communities. Canada’s engagement with gated community research underscores its commitment to exploring urban development issues, housing dynamics, and social stratification within gated residential settings.

Furthermore, countries such as Germany, Turkey, Australia, France, Mexico, and South Africa also feature prominently in the global distribution of research output related to gated communities, albeit slightly less. Their inclusion highlights the diverse geographical representation and international collaboration characterizing gated community research, enriching the scholarly discourse with perspectives and insights from different cultural, socio-economic, and political contexts.

The findings depicted in Figure 6 underscore the global relevance and interdisciplinary nature of research on gated communities, with contributions emanating from diverse regions and academic institutions worldwide. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the geographical distribution of scholarly output and the international collaboration networks shaping the study of gated living environments, facilitating a nuanced understanding of these residential spaces’ complex dynamics and implications.

Figure 7 provides a detailed analysis of the institutional affiliations of researchers contributing to the publication of research output related to gated communities. The data reveals notable concentrations of scholarly contributions from specific academic institutions, shedding light on the institutional landscape and collaborative networks within this research domain.

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Figure 7. Publication by affiliation

Source: Elsevier B.V.

At the forefront, the City University of New York and University College London emerge as the top affiliations for researchers publishing output on gated communities. This underscores these institutions’ robust research infrastructure and academic expertise, facilitating extensive scholarly engagement and knowledge dissemination in the field.

The University of Hong Kong follows closely behind, securing the second position, indicating a significant scholarly output and research activity related to gated communities. The University’s active involvement in addressing urban development, housing dynamics, and social inequalities contributes valuable insights to the global discourse on gated residential environments.

Dalhousie University and The Graduate Center occupy the third position, showcasing a notable contribution to the scholarly literature on gated communities. Their inclusion underscores their contributions and the power of diverse institutional collaborations and interdisciplinary research initiatives, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose in understanding the complexities of gated living environments.

Université Paris 1 Panthéon-Sorbonne claims the fourth position, highlighting its academic prowess and engagement with gated community research. The University’s urban studies, sociology, and architecture expertise enriches the scholarly discourse with critical perspectives on gated residential developments’ socio-economic and spatial dimensions.

Furthermore, institutions such as the University of Leeds, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, and Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile collectively occupy the fifth position, reflecting their active involvement in advancing research agendas related to gated communities within their respective contexts.

Finally, Universität Innsbruck and Cardiff University secure the seventh position, indicating their noteworthy contributions to the scholarly discourse on gated communities. Their engagement underscores the international collaboration networks and cross-disciplinary research endeavors shaping the study of gated living environments.

The findings depicted in Figure 7 highlight the prominent role of specific academic institutions in driving research and knowledge production in gated communities. These institutional affiliations serve as pivotal hubs for scholarly collaboration, innovation, and knowledge dissemination, fostering a vibrant and dynamic research ecosystem dedicated to understanding the complexities of contemporary urban living environments.

Figure 8 provides a detailed analysis of the top researchers who have contributed significantly to the research publication on the theme of gated communities within the Scopus database. The data showcases these researchers’ prolific output and scholarly impact, highlighting their invaluable contributions to advancing knowledge and understanding in this field.

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Figure 8. Publication by author

Source: Elsevier B.V.

Leading the list, researcher Blandy from The University of Sheffield, United Kingdom, secures the top position in publications on the theme of gated communities. Blandy’s notable contributions underscore the University of Sheffield’s prominence as a hub for research excellence in urban studies and social geography, further solidifying its reputation as a leading institution.

Following closely behind, Roitman from The University of Queensland, Australia, occupies the second position, highlighting the University’s significant contributions to the scholarly discourse on gated communities. Roitman’s research endeavors enrich the understanding of gated living environments from an Australian perspective, addressing the region’s unique socio-cultural, economic, and environmental dynamics.

Sharing the third position are Landman from the University of Pretoria, South Africa, and Vesselinov from The Graduate Center, New York, United States. Their contributions not only underscore the global reach of research on gated communities but also the diverse geographical contexts and research methodologies that characterize this field, making their work truly impactful.

In the fourth position, researchers Atkinson from The University of Sheffield, United Kingdom, Le Goix from Université Paris Cité, France, and Webster from The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, showcase their significant contributions to the scholarly discourse on gated communities. Their research endeavors illuminate various aspects of gated living environments, including social stratification, urban governance, and spatial dynamics.

Finally, researchers He from the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, secure the fifth position, underscoring their noteworthy contributions to the scholarly literature on gated communities. Their research initiatives offer valuable insights into gated residential developments’ socio-economic, cultural, and spatial dimensions, further enriching the interdisciplinary dialogue on urban studies and housing dynamics (Table 1).

The findings depicted in Figure 8 not only highlight the pivotal role of these researchers in advancing knowledge and understanding in the field of gated communities but also their interdisciplinary engagement. Their prolific output and global perspectives contribute to a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the complexities inherent in contemporary urban living environments, facilitating informed decision-making and policy formulation at local, national, and international levels.

Table 1. Top researchers in gated community research

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Figure 9. Network visualization

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Figure 10. Overlay visualization

3.3 Thematic areas

The Network Visualization in Figure 9 is a crucial tool that provides a comprehensive overview of the thematic clusters identified in previous research on gated communities. This visual representation of five distinct clusters is not just a map, but a key to unlocking insights into the diverse thematic dimensions and research trajectories within this field.

Cluster 1, highlighted in red, encompasses themes representing a significant research focus area within gated communities. These themes likely encapsulate foundational concepts, core theories, or emerging trends that have garnered considerable scholarly attention and discourse.

Cluster 2, indicated in green, delineates additional thematic areas explored by researchers in the study of gated communities. These themes represent complementary aspects or subtopics within the broader scope of gated community research. This contributes to a nuanced understanding of various dimensions and dynamics associated with gated living environments.

Cluster 3, represented in blue, signifies another set of thematic clusters researchers have investigated. These themes likely reflect distinct research interests, methodological approaches, or theoretical frameworks employed to examine specific aspects of gated communities, adding depth and diversity to the scholarly discourse.

Cluster 4, denoted by yellow, further represents the thematic clusters within the research landscape of gated communities. These themes may encompass niche areas of inquiry, specialized methodologies, or unique perspectives that contribute to the rich tapestry of research on gated residential environments.

Cluster 5, marked in purple, is a treasure trove of additional thematic clusters that researchers have explored, further expanding the breadth and depth of knowledge within the field of gated communities. These themes are not just new, but they represent emerging topics, interdisciplinary intersections, or novel research directions that are ripe for further exploration and investigation.

The overlay visualization in Figure 10 offers additional insights into the temporal evolution and research intensity of thematic clusters within gated communities. Bright or lighter-colored themes indicate relatively new or underexplored research areas, suggesting opportunities for further investigation and scholarly inquiry.

Conversely, darker-colored themes, transitioning from green to blue and purple, signify themes that have been extensively researched or have become longstanding focal points within the field. These themes likely represent foundational concepts, enduring debates, or well-established areas of inquiry that have garnered significant scholarly attention over time.

Moreover, Figure 11 is a compass that provides a visual representation of the research intensity associated with thematic clusters. Brighter or lighter colors indicate themes that have received relatively less research attention, while thicker or darker colors signify themes that have been extensively investigated. This map of research intensity guides us through the current landscape of gated communities studies.

The visualizations presented in Figures 9, 10, and 11 offer valuable insights into the thematic landscape, temporal evolution, and research intensity within the field of gated communities. They facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the diverse research trajectories and emerging trends shaping scholarly inquiry in this domain.

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Figure 11. Density visualization

The significance of Cluster 1, as depicted in Figure 12, underscores several pivotal themes that have emerged as focal points within gated communities research. These themes encapsulate foundational concepts, critical inquiries, and essential dimensions shaping scholarly discourse and practical applications in understanding gated residential environments.

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Figure 12. Cluster 1 - Network visualization

First and foremost, the “gated community” theme stands out as a central focus within Cluster 1. This encompasses exploring gated living environments’ characteristics, dynamics, and implications, including their spatial configurations, socio-economic compositions, and governance structures. Understanding the phenomenon of gated communities is essential for unpacking broader questions related to urban development, social segregation, and spatial inequalities.

Complementing the notion of gated communities, the “governance approach” theme highlights the institutional frameworks, policy mechanisms, and regulatory practices governing gated residential developments. This theme delves into questions of urban governance, planning regulations, and community management strategies employed within gated contexts, shedding light on the evolving dynamics of governance and power relations shaping urban spaces.

Residential location emerges as another central theme within Cluster 1, exploring the spatial patterns, locational preferences, and socioeconomic factors influencing residential choices within gated communities. This theme examines the intersection of housing markets, land use planning, and socio-demographic dynamics, elucidating the drivers and consequences of residential segregation and spatial differentiation in urban areas.

Security is a fundamental concern in gated communities and a key theme within Cluster 1. This theme encompasses discussions on crime prevention strategies, surveillance technologies, and community policing initiatives implemented to enhance security within gated residential environments. Understanding the complexities of security provision and perceptions of safety is essential for addressing gated living environments’ socio-cultural, economic, and spatial dimensions.

Furthermore, themes such as “urban area”, “urban housing,” “urban population”, and “urban society” underscore the broader urban context within which gated communities are situated. These themes examine the interplay between gated residential developments and broader urban dynamics, including housing affordability, population demographics, and social cohesion. Understanding the interactions between gated communities and the urban fabric is crucial for informing policies and planning interventions to foster inclusive, equitable, and sustainable urban development.

The thematic analysis presented in Figure 12 provides valuable insights into the multifaceted nature of research within Cluster 1. It highlights the interconnectedness of themes and the diverse dimensions shaping scholarly inquiry into gated communities. These themes are foundational pillars for advancing knowledge, informing practice, and addressing contemporary urban living environments’ complex challenges and opportunities.

Cluster 2, as depicted in Figure 13, delineates several primary themes that have emerged as significant focal points within the domain of gated communities research. These themes encompass critical aspects of residential environments, urban design, development, and planning, shedding light on the complexities of shaping built environments and urban landscapes.

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Figure 13. Cluster 2 - Network visualization

Residential development emerges as a central theme within Cluster 2, reflecting scholarly interest in understanding the processes, dynamics, and impacts of residential growth within urban areas. This theme encompasses inquiries into various aspects of residential development, including housing typologies, neighborhood formation, and land use dynamics, elucidating the drivers and consequences of urban expansion and residential transformation.

The residential development and urban design theme represent another important dimension within Cluster 2. This theme investigates the principles, practices, and approaches to designing built environments, including the layout, morphology, and aesthetics of gated communities. Understanding the role of urban design in shaping social interactions, spatial configurations, and built form is essential in creating livable, sustainable, and inclusive urban environments.

Urban development constitutes a fundamental theme within Cluster 2, reflecting broader discussions on growth, transformation, and revitalization of metropolitan areas. This theme encompasses inquiries into urban development’s economic, social, and environmental dimensions, including infrastructure provision, land use planning, and community engagement. Examining the dynamics of urban development within the context of gated communities sheds light on the evolving relationships between built form, socio-economic change, and spatial inequalities in contemporary cities.

Urban planning emerges as a central theme within Cluster 2, underscoring the importance of strategic decision-making, policy formulation, and regulatory frameworks in shaping urban environments. This theme explores urban planning theories, practices, and tools, including zoning regulations, land use policies, and participatory processes to guide urban growth and development. Understanding the role of urban planning in mitigating social disparities, promoting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive communities is essential for addressing the complex challenges and opportunities associated with gated living environments.

The thematic analysis presented in Figure 13 provides valuable insights into the primary areas of inquiry within Cluster 2, highlighting the interconnectedness of themes and the multifaceted nature of research on gated communities. These themes serve as foundational pillars for advancing knowledge, informing practice, and guiding policy interventions to create resilient, equitable, and livable urban environments in the face of rapid urbanization and socio-spatial transformation.

Cluster 3, as depicted in Figure 14, uncovers numerous crucial themes that researchers in gated communities have extensively investigated. These themes encapsulate vital dimensions of urban living, housing dynamics, and socio-spatial transformations, providing invaluable insights into the intricacies of gated residential environments. This research is of utmost importance, as it forms the bedrock of our understanding of contemporary urban living.

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Figure 14. Cluster 3 - Network visualization

At the forefront of Cluster 3 lies the theme of “gated communities,” reflecting a significant area of scholarly inquiry into enclosed residential developments’ characteristics, functions, and implications. Researchers have delved into various aspects of gated communities, including their socio-economic compositions, spatial configurations, and governance structures. They aim to unpack the motivations behind their proliferation and their impacts on urban landscapes and social dynamics.

The theme of gated communities, or “housing,” emerges as another pivotal area of research within Cluster 3. This theme encompasses inquiries into housing markets, affordability challenges, and housing policies within the context of gated living environments. Researchers seek to understand the interplay between housing choices, residential preferences, and socio-economic disparities, shedding light on the role of housing in shaping urban inequalities and spatial segregation.

The “metropolitan area” theme reflects broader discussions on urbanization processes, regional development dynamics, and metropolitan governance structures. Researchers explore the complexities of metropolitan regions, including issues of urban sprawl, infrastructure provision, and socio-spatial inequalities, within the context of gated residential environments. Understanding the interactions between gated communities and metropolitan areas is essential for addressing the broader challenges of urban growth and development.

Social segregation represents a critical theme within Cluster 3, highlighting the socio-spatial dynamics and inequalities prevalent within gated living environments. Researchers investigate the mechanisms and consequences of social segregation, including its impacts on community cohesion, social capital formation, and urban fragmentation. Examining social segregation within gated communities provides valuable insights into the dynamics of exclusion and inclusion shaping contemporary urban societies.

Suburban areas emerge as another key theme within Cluster 3, reflecting scholarly interest in understanding the dynamics of suburbanization and suburban living within gated contexts. This theme encompasses inquiries into suburban development patterns, lifestyle choices, and socio-economic disparities, shedding light on the landscape’s evolving nature and the role of gated communities within suburban environments.

Urban fragmentation represents a fundamental theme within Cluster 3, highlighting the spatial divisions, socio-economic disparities, and community dynamics in fragmented urban landscapes. Researchers explore the processes and consequences of urban fragmentation, including its impacts on social cohesion, spatial justice, and urban governance. Understanding urban fragmentation within the context of gated communities provides insights into the complexities of contemporary urban environments and the challenges of fostering inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities.

Urbanization constitutes a central theme within Cluster 3, reflecting broader discussions on the processes, patterns, and consequences of urban growth and transformation. This theme encompasses inquiries into urbanization dynamics, including population migration, land use change, and infrastructure development, within the context of gated residential environments. Understanding the impacts of urbanization on gated communities sheds light on the evolving nature of urban landscapes and the challenges of managing urban growth and development in the 21st century.

The thematic analysis presented in Figure 14 offers valuable insights into the primary areas of inquiry within Cluster 3, highlighting the interconnectedness of themes and the diverse dimensions of research on gated communities. These themes not only serve as foundational pillars for advancing knowledge but also have direct implications for policy and practice. They guide us in addressing the complex challenges and opportunities associated with contemporary urban living environments, making this research highly relevant and impactful.

Cluster 4, as delineated in Figure 15, showcases several significant themes that have emerged as focal points within the domain of gated communities research. These themes encapsulate critical dimensions of urban governance, socio-economic dynamics, and spatial transformations, offering valuable insights into the complexities of gated residential environments within broader urban landscapes.

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Figure 15. Cluster 4 - Network visualization

At the forefront of Cluster 4 lies “neoliberalism,” reflecting scholarly interest in understanding the socio-political and economic ideologies shaping contemporary urban development processes. Neoliberalism entails a set of policies emphasizing market-driven approaches, privatization of public services, and deregulation of urban land markets, influencing the proliferation and governance of gated communities. Researchers explore the impacts of neoliberal urban policies on housing markets, social inequalities, and spatial segregation, shedding light on the intersections between neoliberalism and the spatial organization of cities.

The theme of neoliberalism, “privatization”, emerges as another pivotal area of inquiry within Cluster 4. This theme concerns privatizing urban spaces, including public amenities, services, and infrastructure within gated residential developments. Researchers examine the implications of privatization for access to urban resources, social inclusion, and democratic governance, interrogating the tensions between private interests and public goods in contemporary urban contexts.

The “public space” theme represents a fundamental dimension of urban life and governance, highlighting the significance of shared spaces for fostering social interaction, civic engagement, and community cohesion. Within gated communities, researchers explore the implications of privatization and securitization for the accessibility, inclusivity, and democratic use of public spaces. Understanding the dynamics of public space within gated environments is essential for addressing questions of social segregation, spatial justice, and urban citizenship.

Urban geography constitutes another key theme within Cluster 4, reflecting scholarly interest in understanding the spatial dimensions of urbanization processes, socio-spatial inequalities, and territorial governance. Urban geography encompasses inquiries into cities’ spatial organization, including land use patterns, socio-economic disparities, and urban form within gated residential environments. Researchers employ spatial analysis techniques to investigate the spatial dynamics of gated communities, shedding light on the spatial inequalities and power relations shaping urban landscapes.

Finally, “urban policy” emerges as a central theme within Cluster 4, highlighting the role of public policies and planning interventions in shaping urban development trajectories. Urban policies encompass a range of initiatives addressing housing affordability, social inclusion, and sustainable urban growth within gated communities. Researchers examine the impacts of urban policies on gated residential environments, interrogating questions of governance, equity, and sustainability in contemporary urban landscapes.

The thematic analysis presented in Figure 15 offers valuable insights into the significant areas of inquiry within Cluster 4, highlighting the interconnectedness of themes and the multidimensional nature of research on gated communities. These themes serve as critical lenses for understanding the socio-political, economic, and spatial dynamics shaping contemporary urban environments, informing policy interventions and planning strategies to foster inclusive, equitable, and sustainable cities.

Cluster 5, as depicted in Figure 16, highlights several key themes that have emerged as significant focal points within gated communities research. These themes encompass critical dimensions of community dynamics, socio-spatial relationships, and the lived experiences of residents within gated residential environments, offering valuable insights into the complexities of gated living.

At the core of Cluster 5 lies the “community” theme, reflecting scholarly interest in understanding the formation, dynamics, and identities of communities within gated environments. Researchers explore the social interactions, shared values, and collective practices defining community life in gated residential developments. Understanding the dynamics of community formation and maintenance is essential for addressing questions of social cohesion, belonging, and identity within gated contexts.

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Figure 16. Cluster 5 - Network visualization

The theme of community, “neighborhood”, emerges as another pivotal area of inquiry within Cluster 5. This theme encompasses discussions on the spatial boundaries, social networks, and socio-economic characteristics of neighborhoods within gated communities. Researchers examine the role of neighborhoods in shaping social interactions, access to resources, and quality of life for residents, illuminating the micro-level dynamics of social organization within gated environments.

“Spatial analysis” represents a fundamental theme within Cluster 5, reflecting scholarly interest in employing spatial methodologies to investigate the spatial patterns, relationships, and dynamics within gated residential environments. Researchers utilize spatial analysis techniques, such as GIS mapping, network analysis, and spatial statistics, to examine the spatial organization of gated communities, including questions of accessibility, connectivity, and spatial segregation. Spatial analysis facilitates a nuanced understanding of spatial inequalities, socio-spatial dynamics, and spatial practices within gated living environments.

The theme of “segregation” underscores the socio-spatial dynamics of exclusion and inclusion within gated communities. Researchers investigate the mechanisms and consequences of social segregation, including its impacts on social interactions, social capital formation, and access to resources. Understanding segregation dynamics within gated environments is essential for addressing social equity, spatial justice, and urban governance questions.

Finally, “social exclusion” constitutes another key theme within Cluster 5, highlighting the experiences of marginalized groups and individuals within gated residential environments. Researchers examine the processes and mechanisms of social exclusion, including barriers to access, discrimination, and marginalization within gated communities. Understanding the dynamics of social exclusion sheds light on the complexities of social inequality, power dynamics, and social cohesion within contemporary urban landscapes.

The thematic analysis presented in Figure 16 offers beneficial insights into the significant areas of inquiry within Cluster 5, highlighting the interrelation of themes and the multidimensional character of research on gated communities. These themes provide critical lenses to understand the socio-spatial dynamics and lived experiences within gated communities, informing policy interventions and planning strategies to foster inclusive, equitable, and vibrant communities.

The central themes identified in the study on gated communities encompass various dimensions of research focus within the field. These themes include community dynamics, socio-spatial transformations, urban governance, socio-economic compositions, spatial configurations, and governance structures. The interpretation of the clusters reveals the interconnectedness of these themes, highlighting the multidimensional nature of research on gated communities and underscoring the importance of understanding the complexities of gated residential environments within broader urban landscapes. The significance of these clusters lies in their ability to inform policy interventions, urban planning strategies, and decision-making processes aimed at creating inclusive, equitable, and sustainable urban environments. By elucidating the central themes, interpreting the clusters, and exploring their interrelationships, this study contributes valuable insights that advance knowledge, inform practice, and guide future research directions in the study of gated communities.

3.4 Identifying research gaps and emerging areas of interest

The bibliometric analysis depicted in this study suggests valuable insights into the discourses in gated communities, revealing significant trends, interdisciplinary collaborations, and emerging research trajectories. However, several research gaps and emerging areas of interest are evident, providing a roadmap for future research endeavors and interdisciplinary engagement.

3.4.1 Research gaps

Firstly, while the analysis highlights the interdisciplinary nature of research on gated communities, specific disciplinary perspectives appear to be underrepresented. For instance, disciplines such as Cultural Studies, Architecture, and Public Health could offer valuable insights into gated living environments’ cultural, architectural, and health implications. Future research should bridge these disciplinary gaps and incorporate diverse perspectives to enrich our understanding of gated communities.

Secondly, the analysis primarily focuses on research output from Western countries, with limited representation from the Global South. Given the prevalence of gated communities in rapidly urbanizing regions of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, perspectives from these regions are needed to provide a more balanced and nuanced understanding of gated living environments. Future research should prioritize collaborations with scholars and institutions from the Global South to address this geographical bias effectively.

Thirdly, while the analysis identifies thematic clusters and their temporal evolution, there is a need for deeper exploration into the underlying factors driving the emergence and evolution of these themes over time. Understanding how societal, economic, and technological changes influence research priorities and trajectories within the field of Gated communities can provide valuable insights into future research directions and policy implications.

To further enhance the section on research gaps and future directions, additional insights could be provided regarding specific avenues for addressing these gaps. This may involve outlining potential research inquiries that could delve deeper into the identified gaps, proposing theoretical frameworks or perspectives that could offer new insights, and suggesting methodological strategies that could be employed to explore these research areas more effectively.

Researchers could consider conducting interdisciplinary studies that integrate methodologies and concepts from disciplines such as Cultural Studies, Architecture, and Public Health into the study of gated communities. This multidisciplinary approach could involve qualitative methods such as ethnographic research to explore cultural dynamics within gated communities or architectural analysis to understand the built environment’s influence on social interactions.

Additionally, future studies could actively seek collaborations with scholars and institutions from regions in the Global South where gated communities are prevalent to address the geographical bias in research representation. This could involve joint research projects, conference collaborations, or knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at fostering a more inclusive and diverse research agenda. By doing so, we can ensure that our research reflects the global reality of gated communities, not just a localized perspective.

3.4.2 Emerging areas of interest

Firstly, with the spread of innovative technologies in urban environments, there is a growing interest in exploring the concept of Smart gated communities. Future research could investigate integrating IoT devices, AI-driven systems, and data analytics in gated communities to improve residents’ security, sustainability, and quality of life.

Secondly, while existing research discusses social dynamics within gated communities, there is a growing interest in comprehensively understanding the socio-cultural dimensions. Future research could probe deeper into community identity, social cohesion, and cultural practices within gated community, exploring how these factors shape residents’ experiences and interactions.

Thirdly, as sustainability becomes more important in urban development, there is a need to scrutinize the environmental impacts and resilience of gated communities. Future research could explore sustainable design practices, green infrastructure initiatives, and community resilience strategies within gated residential developments to promote environmental stewardship and mitigate climate risks.

Fourthly, effective policy interventions and governance mechanisms are essential for addressing the challenges of gated communities, such as social exclusion and spatial inequalities. Future research could assess existing policies, identify best practices, and recommend innovative governance models to encourage inclusive and equitable urban development in gated communities.

3.4.3 Interdisciplinary engagement

Firstly, given the interdisciplinary nature of research on gated communities, collaborative research initiatives that bring together scholars from diverse disciplines are needed. Future research endeavors should prioritize interdisciplinary collaboration to leverage complementary expertise and methodologies, fostering a holistic understanding of gated living environments.

Secondly, meaningful engagement with stakeholders, including residents, policymakers, urban planners, and community organizations, is crucial for conducting impactful research on gated communities. By incorporating insights from stakeholders, such as residents’ lived experiences, policymakers’ perspectives on urban development, and urban planners’ expertise in spatial organization, the research can offer more practical solutions to address the challenges and opportunities presented by gated communities. Moreover, fostering collaboration between academia and various stakeholders can facilitate the translation of research findings into policy interventions and community initiatives, leading to more equitable and sustainable urban environments. Future research should adopt participatory approaches that involve stakeholders throughout the research process, ensuring that research findings are relevant, actionable, and inclusive.

Thirdly, bridging the gap between research and practice is essential for translating scholarly insights into tangible outcomes and policy interventions. Future research should prioritize knowledge exchange activities, such as workshops, seminars, and policy briefings, to facilitate dialogue between researchers, practitioners, and policymakers, fostering evidence-based decision-making and sustainable urban development.