When Mastery Meets Anxiety: Identity-Linked Language Anxiety in Highly Proficient Speakers
Keywords:
Identity-linked anxiety, Language anxiety, Proficient speakers, Oral communication, Dysfluency, Social evaluationAbstract
Language anxiety is often associated with low proficiency, yet highly proficient speakers may also experience intense anxiety in situations where their social identity is perceived to be at stake. This qualitative case study investigates identity-linked language anxiety in a highly fluent English speaker, exploring how perceived judgment and self-consciousness affect oral communication. Data were collected through audio-video recordings of speaking tasks, semi-structured interviews, and reflective journals. Thematic analysis revealed that identity threat, social evaluation, situational triggers, and self-monitoring led to stuttering, hesitation, and word-finding difficulties. Coping strategies such as mental rehearsal and pacing partially mitigated dysfluency. Findings highlight that even proficient speakers may experience anxiety when identity is salient, underscoring the need for supportive, psychologically safe communicative environments. The study contributes to understanding the interplay of competence, affect, and identity in oral communication.
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