Foreign Language Anxiety: Classroom Implications

Abstract

This research synthesis intended to analyze the causes, the effects, and the pedagogical implications of anxiety at the moment of communicating in a foreign language. In this case, a specific anxiety situation in English called foreign language anxiety was investigated. Fifteen empirical studies were examined (all of them written in English and focused on language anxiety at the moment of speaking in English). The results demonstrated that anxiety occurs in a specific moment due to various circumstances, such as the fear to talk in English or strict correction from teachers. This phenomenon should not be misinterpreted as laziness or disinterest. The results demonstrated that emotional support from teachers and a positive attitude is necessary. In this way, learners can continue with their process of learning English. Also, research should be conducted in the local context. These new studies should discuss the causes of anxiety in other language skills.