Journal of Research in Applied Linguistics

Journal of Research in Applied Linguistics

Examining the Role of Self-Compassion for Mistakes in L2 Anxiety, L2 Achievement and Willingness to Communicate among L2 Learners

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Elyas Barabadi 1
Yaser Khajavi 2
Majid Reza Razavi 3
Amanollah Arghavan 4
Gordon L. Flett 5
1 Department of English, University of Bojnord, Bojnord, Iran
2 Department of Foreign Languages Education, Salman Farsi University of Kazerun, Kazerun, Iran
3 Department of Educational Sciences, Taybad Branch, Islamic Azad University, Taybad, Iran
4 Department of English, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
5 York University, Toronto, ON, Canada
10.22055/rals.2026.51065.3712
Abstract
The present study examined the role of mistake self-compassion (MSC) in second language (L2) learning, with particular focus on its relationship with L2 anxiety, willingness to communicate (WTC), and L2 achievement. Participants were 377 Iranian EFL learners studying English as a foreign language. An MSC scale was developed and validated to assess learners’ self-compassionate responses to language-learning mistakes. In addition, confirmatory factor analysis supported a seven-item scale with acceptable psychometric properties. Structural equation modeling analyses indicated that higher levels of MSC were associated with lower L2 anxiety and greater willingness to communicate. Although MSC did not directly predict L2 achievement, it indirectly predicted both WTC and L2 achievement through reduced L2 anxiety. These findings suggest that learners who respond to mistakes with greater self-kindness and emotional balance may experience lower anxiety and show greater willingness to communicate in the target language. The study contributes to the growing literature on psychological aspects of  language learning by introducing a domain-specific measure of MSC and clarifying its role as a protective factor in L2 contexts. Findings underscore the value of supportive classrooms in which mistakes are tolerated.
Keywords
Self-compassion
Willingness to Communicate
L2 Achievement
Anxiety
Language Learning Context
Mistakes
Language Learners
Journal of Research in Applied Linguistics

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 18 June 2026