Integrating Positive Psychology to Enhance Motivation and Mental Health in International Chinese Education
Linlin ZhuAbstract
Objective
This study examines the implementation of Positive Psychology-informed pedagogical strategies to enhance learning motivation and foster positive emotions among international learners of Chinese. It specifically investigates how this strengths-based approach can mitigate language learning anxiety, reduce academic stress, and improve overall psychological well-being within the language acquisition context, addressing foundational mental health concerns in education.
Subjects and Methods
A mixed-methods, quasi-experimental study was conducted over 12 weeks with 110 intermediate learners. Participants were assigned to an experimental group receiving a Positive Psychology-integrated curriculum (including growth mindset and resilience training) or a control group following a standard curriculum. Pre- and post-test surveys assessed motivation, positive/negative affect, and perceived stress, alongside classroom observations and interviews to gauge psychological engagement and stress responses.
Results
Learners in the experimental group showed significantly greater improvements in intrinsic motivation and positive affect, alongside a measurable reduction in self-reported stress and anxiety symptoms related to language use. Qualitative data revealed enhanced resilience, a stronger sense of belonging, and more adaptive coping strategies when facing linguistic challenges, indicating improved psychological functioning.
Conclusions
Systematically integrating Positive Psychology into language instruction effectively supports not only motivation and engagement but also critical dimensions of student mental health. This approach provides a proactive framework for reducing language learning anxiety and building psychological resilience, positioning well-being as a cornerstone for sustainable academic success and holistic student development.
Corresponding Author
Linlin Zhu, College of Chinese Studies, Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, Bangkok 10540, Thailand.