Social marginalization: A scoping review of 50 years of research

Abstract

Despite growing interest in social marginalization, the concept lacks a common and clear definition. Using a scoping review method, this paper systematically analyzed 1121 papers identified in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, spanning 50 years of research. The results show a diffusively expanding research field that covers 17 topics of social marginalization and identifies 12 socially marginalized groups. Health was the most frequent topic, with immigrants and minorities being the most targeted study population. From the extensive body of research, 97 unique definitions of social marginalization were extracted. These definitions were analyzed and synthesized into four themes, and subsequently integrated into a new definition. We defined social marginalization as a multifaceted concept that refers to a context-dependent social process of “othering”—where certain individuals or groups are systematically excluded based on societal norms and values—and the resulting experience of disadvantage. This review addresses recent academic calls for clarity by promoting a unified understanding of social marginalization. Moreover, we provide guidelines for both research and policy interventions aimed at addressing this critical issue.