A Review of Studies on L2 Motivational Self System

Abstract

The Second Language Motivational Self-System (L2 MSS) is the motivation model elaborated in this article. The aim of this article is to review the model, present a summary of research, that empirically analyses the model and its key features, and suggest future research options. In the article, the issue with the model will be addressed one by one. Then, theoretical descriptions of the model will be presented, followed by its empirical investigations and criticism. Theoretical elaboration of the model is based on Gardners model of motivation, Markus and Nurius possible selves and Higgins self-discrepancy theory. Numerous empirical studies examining the model in various contexts around the world found that the ideal L2 self, which associates integrativeness motives and the internalised instrumental, is the strongest component of the model, and the ought-to L2 self, which is relatively less internalised or motivating. The model has been modified to take learning experiences into account. However, unbalanced attention is given to the L2MSSs constituent parts.