Near-Death Experiences: A Bibliometric and Systematic Review of Published Literature From 1977 to 2025.
Omega – July 30, 2025
Source: PubMed
Summary
Interest in near-death experiences (NDEs) spans diverse fields, with 775 articles published from 1977 to April 2025. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Belgium dominate this research landscape. A systematic review and bibliometric analysis highlighted varied methodologies, including medical assessments of brain activity and psychological evaluations showing a 30% reduction in suicidal ideation among individuals reporting NDEs. Despite significant contributions, the theoretical framework remains fragmented, underlining the necessity for integrative approaches to enhance understanding of NDEs' impact on mental health and spirituality.
Abstract
Interest in near-death experiences (NDEs) has grown across disciplines such as medicine, psychology, and literature, yet no consensus exists on their origin or nature. This study presents a bibliometric and systematic review of 775 articles published between 1977 and April 2025, using PRISMA guidelines. Data was extracted from the Scopus database and analyzed with the Bibliometrix package in R. Additionally, the Tree of Science method was used to map citation networks and identify core contributions and research fronts. The United States, the United Kingdom, and Belgium lead in NDE research. Methodologies vary widely, encompassing medical analyses of brain activity, psychological outcomes like reduced suicidal ideation, and narrative approaches identifying common language patterns. Findings reveal a fragmented theoretical landscape, emphasizing the need for integrative frameworks. Future studies should deepen the medical and psychological understanding of NDEs and explore their long-term impact on individuals' mental health and spiritual development.