Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
21st INGED International ELT Conference - Getting Off the Beaten Path in ELT, Kayseri, Türkiye, 3 - 05 Kasım 2023
This research study investigated the levels of perfectionism and foreign language teaching
anxiety (FLTA) among 85 pre-service EFL teachers (PSTs) at several state universities in
Turkey. The aim is to analyze the interrelation between perfectionism and FLTA while
concurrently examining their implications for the development and well-being of pre-service
teachers. Following a mixed-method research design, quantitative data were collected using the
Student Teacher Anxiety Scale (STAS) and The Big Tree Perfectionism Scale (BTPS);
qualitative data were obtained through semi-structured interviews, thus facilitating a
comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the two concepts. The findings
indicated that there is a relationship between perfectionism and FLTA, and PSTs with higher
perfectionism experience greater FLTA. These findings highlight the emotional challenges
pre-service teachers face and the impact of perfectionism on their language teaching
experiences. By recognizing the association between perfectionism and FLTA, this study offers
valuable insights into the field of EFL teacher education. PSTs’ remarks and the results of the
study suggest the need for targeted interventions and support tailored specifically for
pre-service teachers. Teacher training programs should address the emotional dimensions of
language teaching, focusing on strategies to manage perfectionism and reduce FLTA.
Understanding this relationship can improve pre-service teachers' overall well-being and
professional development. In conclusion, this research contributes to a better understanding of
the complexities of emotions in language teaching and offers practical implications for
supporting pre-service EFL teachers.