The Strength of Self and L2 Willingness to Communicate: The role of L2 Grit, Ideal L2 Self and Growth Language Mindset

Abstract

Positive psychology emphasizes the role that character strengths play in the achievement of goals. In this study, we examined character strengths in the context of second language (L2) learning and their role in a critical goal of L2 learning - the Willingness to Communicate (WTC) in the target language. Specifically, we examined the impact of L2 Grit, Ideal L2 Self, and Language Mindset as complex direct and indirect predictors of WTC. Data was collected from 450 EFL learners. The predictor of L2 Grit, and the possible mediators of Ideal L2 Self and Language Mindset, and the outcome variable of WTC was modelled in a latent mediation model. Results indicated that Ideal L2 Self and Language Mindset fully mediated the relationship between L2 Grit and WTC. As such, the study highlighted the role that personal strengths such as grittiness, self-motivation and a growth mindset can have in the L2 learning context.

A Review of a Malaysian Public University Students’ Motivational Behaviour in Learning a Foreign Language

“…Xu and Ji (2021) underscored its efficacy in driving determination and persistence in foreign language learning. The findings of Csizér and Kormos (2014) as well as Ebn-Abbasi et al (2023) spotlight the need for curricula that engage the "Ideal L2 Self", fostering more intrinsic motivation. It has been shown to significantly correlate with integrativeness (Ryan, 2009).…”