OVERCOMING LANGUAGE ANXIETY: PSYCHOLOGICAL APPROACHES TO BUILD CONFIDENCE IN MIDDLE SCHOOL ENGLISH LEARNERS
PDF

Keywords

Language anxiety, confidence, psychological approaches, middle school, English learning, motivation, emotional intelligence, classroom environment.

Abstract

Language anxiety is one of the most common psychological barriers that hinders middle school students from actively participating in English language learning. It often manifests as fear of making mistakes, speaking in front of peers, or being judged by others, leading to low confidence and reduced performance. This article explores various psychological approaches to overcoming language anxiety and building self-confidence among English learners. The study emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive classroom environment, implementing relaxation techniques, promoting positive feedback, and using collaborative learning strategies. By addressing emotional factors alongside linguistic competence, teachers can help students develop confidence, motivation, and resilience in learning English.

PDF

References

1. Horwitz, E. K., Horwitz, M. B., & Cope, J. (1986). Foreign language classroom anxiety. The Modern Language Journal, 70(2), 125–132.

2. MacIntyre, P. D., & Gardner, R. C. (1991). Methods and results in the study of anxiety and language learning: A review of the literature. Language Learning, 41(1), 85–117.

3. Young, D. J. (1991). Creating a low-anxiety classroom environment: What does language anxiety research suggest? The Modern Language Journal, 75(4), 426–439.

4. Gregersen, T., & MacIntyre, P. D. (2014). Capitalizing on language learners’ individuality: From premise to practice. Bristol: Multilingual Matters.

5. Oxford, R. L. (1999). Anxiety and the language learner: New insights. In J. Arnold (Ed.), Affect in Language Learning (pp. 58–67). Cambridge University Press.

6. Bailey, K. M., & Nunan, D. (2001). Practical English Language Teaching. McGraw-Hill.

7. Chastain, K. (1990). Developing Second-Language Skills: Theory and Practice. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich.

8. Saito, H., Garza, T., & Horwitz, E. K. (1999). Foreign language reading anxiety. The Modern Language Journal, 83(2), 202–218.

9. MacIntyre, P. D. (1999). Language anxiety: A review of the research for language teachers. In D. J. Young (Ed.), Affect in Language Learning (pp. 24–45). McGraw-Hill.

10. Dewaele, J.-M., & MacIntyre, P. D. (2014). The two faces of Janus? Anxiety and enjoyment in the foreign language classroom. Studies in Second Language Learning and Teaching, 4(2), 237–274.