A Bibliometric Analysis of Research in Forensic Linguistics

Abstract

Forensic linguistics is a specialised discipline within the field of applied linguistics, it critically examines language use across diverse modalities. Its fundamental objective is to provide a rigorous legal framework for carefully analysing linguistic patterns. This study aims to identify the publishing trends in forensic linguistics by investigating the research constituents including authors, countries, affiliations, journals, and keywords. In contemporary society, there is a rapid proliferation of ignorance concerning copyrights and the rights of others. Therefore, it is crucial to raise awareness among the public about these rights. This study endeavours to present a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the existing research landscape within Forensic Linguistics. The data for this research was extracted from the Web of Science database, analysed using Microsoft spreadsheet, and visualized using network data visualisation software, VOS Viewer (1.16.9). The major findings include the identification of commonly used keywords in forensic linguistics, such as legal language, linguistic, language policy, language, law, legal translation, speech recognition, authorship attribution, and discourse. This paper also draws attention to the absence of Forensic Linguistics specialisation programs and endorses their establishment considering published research and the global crime rate. Moreover, it aims to stimulate a passion for research in the said field by providing several recommendations for different stakeholders around the world. This paper also highlights forensic linguistics as a significant field of research, education, and professional practice worldwide as this study has implications for researchers, linguists, lawyers, higher education policymakers, and university administrations.