Finding calm to stay engaged: Foreign language peace of mind as a mediator between L2 growth mindset and engagement among Chinese EFL learners

The belief that language learning abilities are malleable (L2 Growth Mindset) is crucial for sustained engagement in second language (L2) acquisition. However, the mechanisms linking L2 Growth Mindset (L2GM) to L2 engagement, particularly the role of specific positive emotions, require further exploration. This study investigates the mediating role of Foreign Language Peace of Mind (FLPOM)—a low-arousal, culturally-nuanced positive emotion characterized by inner peace and harmony—in the relationship between L2GM and the multifaceted construct of L2 engagement (behavioral, emotional, cognitive, and agentic) among 300 Chinese EFL learners. Structural equation modeling revealed that L2GM positively predicted FLPOM, and FLPOM, in turn, positively predicted all four dimensions of L2 engagement. L2GM also directly predicted behavioral and cognitive engagement. Crucially, FLPOM significantly mediated the relationship between L2GM and all engagement dimensions, acting as a full mediator for emotional and agentic engagement and a partial mediator for behavioral and cognitive engagement. These findings highlight that fostering a growth mindset can cultivate FLPOM, which then empowers learners to engage more deeply across all facets of L2 learning. The study underscores the importance of FLPOM as a key psychological resource and suggests pedagogical implications for nurturing both growth mindsets and peace of mind to enhance L2 engagement.