<p>This study presents a comprehensive analysis of social-ecological systems (SESs) research spanning from 1998 to 2022, utilizing bibliometric and scientometric methodologies to examine the field's evolution, key contributions, and future trajectories. Through a systematic review of 1792 peer-reviewed articles, selected via a rigorous combination of keyword searches and citation tracking, we identified significant patterns and trends in SESs research development. The analysis reveals a marked shift in SESs research paradigms toward applied, interdisciplinary studies since 2020, with particular emphasis on resilience, sustainability, and global health considerations. Although interdisciplinary research within SESs has expanded substantially, the field continues to face challenges related to definitional and methodological inconsistencies. Our findings underscore the critical need for a unified theoretical framework to guide subsequent research endeavors. Furthermore, we identified prominent institutions and researchers who have contributed significantly to the field's advancement, while also highlighting several understudied domains within SESs research, particularly in conservation science. This study's primary scientific contribution lies in its provision of a comprehensive synthesis of the SESs literature, coupled with the proposition of a unified theoretical framework to understand complex social-ecological dynamics. Additionally, it offers strategic guidance for future research initiatives toward more integrated approaches. The findings hold significant implications for enhancing interdisciplinary collaboration in the understanding and management of complex social-ecological systems, while simultaneously illuminating promising avenues for future investigation in this domain.</p>