Understanding the Roots and Upshots of Anxiety in the Context of Foreign Language Learning

The main goal for most non-native English speakers, particularly Algerian English students, is to enhance their English proficiency and effectively communicate with others. However, this endeavor can be both pleasurable and daunting. Despite employing various techniques like dictionaries and watching English movies, these students often feel inadequate and uncertain about their language skills, lacking the necessary lexicon for effective communication. As a result, this sense of inadequacy is commonly referred to as "anxiety". In the realm of educational psychology, anxiety has gained significant attention and has become a prominent area of research in the context of second language acquisition. Its substantial impact on students' language acquisition renders it one of the most influential adverse factors in learning English as a Foreign Language. In this regard, the current study relies on quantitative methodology for its ability to provide precise numerical data, and enables replication of findings for validation and generalization. The results have indicated that anxiety in foreign language learning may stem from other concepts, such as self-perception and self-evaluation.