Psychological Profiles of First-Year Students in a Japanese University English Communication Class: An Integrated Analysis of Possible Selves, Feared Selves, and Peace of Mind
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study integrates Foreign Language Peace of Mind (FLPOM) items with established Possible Self and Feared Self questionnaires to comprehensively examine the motivational and emotional experiences of first-year Japanese university students majoring in non-English fields in their English language learning. While the Possible Self and Feared Self constructs capture learners’ future-oriented hopes and anxieties, FLPOM focuses on their present psychological states, specifically their sense of calm and emotional stability during language classes. By combining these measures, the research offers a multidimensional perspective encompassing both future self-images and current affective well-being. The findings reveal the complex interplay between motivation and emotion, emphasizing the importance of considering learners’ psychological comfort alongside their ideal selves. This integrated approach not only enhances the validity and reliability of learner assessments but also contributes to the development of concrete pedagogical strategies for creating supportive and effective language learning environments.
Author: Yoko Kinoshita
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7162611248