Mapping Marital Satisfaction: A Bibliometric Analysis of Five Decades of Research (1970–2025)

Marital satisfaction is a central determinant of individual well-being, family functioning, and social stability, yet the development of its research base remains insufficiently mapped. This study presents a bibliometric analysis of 10,679 articles and reviews indexed in the Web of Science Core Collection and Scopus from 1970 to 2025. Using VOSviewer, Biblioshiny, CiteSpace, and Python, the analysis examines publication growth, influential contributors, collaboration structures, intellectual foundations, and thematic development. The findings show publication growth and a concentration of research in North American and Western European countries, institutions, and journals. The United States holds the dominant position, although contributions from China, South Korea, and other regions indicate geographical diversification. The Journal of Family Psychology ranks first among publication outlets, J. K. McNulty is the most productive author, and Guy Bodenmann records the highest citation impact and network connectivity. Spanier’s Dyadic Adjustment Scale and Karney and Bradbury’s Vulnerability-Stress-Adaptation model remain intellectual foundations. The thematic map identifies motor themes centered on marital satisfaction, couples, quality, stress, depression, and social support. Emerging research addresses health, infertility, sexuality, parenting, violence, and diverse relationship contexts. The study highlights theoretical concentration, identifies priorities for cultural and structural extension, and offers implications for research, counseling, and family policy.