International Journal of Language, Education, and Literature (IJLEL)
Vol. 3 No. 2 (2026): April

Exploring EFL Students’ Speaking Anxiety: An Analysis of Levels, Causal Factors, and Coping Mechanisms

Husniah S (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Nurdin Noni (Universitas Negeri Makassar)
Muhammad Tahir (Universitas Negeri Makassar)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 May 2026

Abstract

This study investigates the level, sources, and coping mechanisms of speaking anxiety among EFL learners at SMP Negeri 1 Mare. Using a mixed-method design, data were collected through the Foreign Language Classroom Anxiety Scale (FLCAS), semi-structured interviews, and classroom observation. The findings reveal that most students experienced moderate anxiety (42%), followed by high anxiety (30%), indicating that speaking remains a challenging skill for many learners. Three major factors contributing to anxiety were identified: communicative apprehension, fear of negative evaluation, and test anxiety, which frequently manifested in hesitation, avoidance, and physical tension. In response to these challenges, learners employed several coping strategies, including preparation, relaxation, positive thinking, and peer seeking, with preparation being the most frequently used. The study highlights the importance of providing supportive speaking activities and reducing evaluative pressure to help students manage anxiety and improve oral performance. These findings offer valuable implications for EFL teachers in designing anxiety-responsive instructional practices.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

IJLEL

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IJLEL International Journal Language, Education, and Literature is an international peer-reviewed and open-access journal in language education. The aim is to publish conceptual and research articles exploring the application of any language in teaching and the everyday language experience in ...