L2 Motivation Theories from Metatheoretical Perspective : A Critical Review of CDST, L2 Motivational Self-System, AT, DMC, and TEA

This paper reviews five recent theories of second language acquisition(SLA) and cultural-historical psychology, all of which have been utilized in the field of second language (L2) motivation research. I investigate the role that "metatheory" in the Complex Dynamic Systems Theory (CDST) plays in other reviewed theories to determine the extent to which CDST can be applied to the study of L2 motivation as a metatheory. The particular focus is on how CDST can be applied as a metatheory in the Trajectory Equifinality Approach (TEA), the most recent theory in cultural-historical psychology, which is increasingly being deployed in the field of L2 motivation. Finally, I discuss core issues arising from the broadness of the metatheory for L2 motivation studies.