This review article explores the trends and developments in psychological well-being (PWB) research from 1980 to 2022 using bibliometric and content analysis methods. A total of 16,885 academic studies were analyzed using tools like VOSviewer, Citespace, Bibliometrix, and Excel. The results show a steady increase in publications and citations, with a significant surge after 2016. The United States accounts for over a third of the publications, and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and Frontiers in Psychology are the most productive journals. Carol D. Ryff is the most cited author in the field. Keywords related to PWB have evolved over time, with themes initially focusing on children, dementia, and social support, but shifting to mindfulness, loneliness, and support due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent studies emphasize motivation, rehabilitation, and social isolation. The research highlights the growing importance of PWB in psychology and related fields, with a focus on mental health, social support, and the effects of the pandemic. The study also identifies key authors, journals, and research areas contributing to PWB research. The findings suggest that PWB research is expanding rapidly, with significant contributions from the United States and other countries. The study provides insights into the trends and developments in PWB research, emphasizing the need for further exploration of this area.This review article explores the trends and developments in psychological well-being (PWB) research from 1980 to 2022 using bibliometric and content analysis methods. A total of 16,885 academic studies were analyzed using tools like VOSviewer, Citespace, Bibliometrix, and Excel. The results show a steady increase in publications and citations, with a significant surge after 2016. The United States accounts for over a third of the publications, and the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health and Frontiers in Psychology are the most productive journals. Carol D. Ryff is the most cited author in the field. Keywords related to PWB have evolved over time, with themes initially focusing on children, dementia, and social support, but shifting to mindfulness, loneliness, and support due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Recent studies emphasize motivation, rehabilitation, and social isolation. The research highlights the growing importance of PWB in psychology and related fields, with a focus on mental health, social support, and the effects of the pandemic. The study also identifies key authors, journals, and research areas contributing to PWB research. The findings suggest that PWB research is expanding rapidly, with significant contributions from the United States and other countries. The study provides insights into the trends and developments in PWB research, emphasizing the need for further exploration of this area.