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Why you should stop using the ideal L2 self and the L2 motivational self-system to measure motivation (Reaction to Al-Hoorie, Hiver & In’nami, 2024)

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 March 2025

Neil McClelland Open the ORCID record for Neil McClelland [Opens in a new window]  and
Jenifer Larson-Hall Open the ORCID record for Jenifer Larson-Hall [Opens in a new window]
Neil McClelland*
Affiliation:
University of Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
Jenifer Larson-Hall
Affiliation:
University of Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, Japan
*
Corresponding author: Neil McClelland; Email: [email protected]
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Abstract

This paper responds to Al-Hoorie, Hiver, and In’nami’s (2024) critique of the second language (L2) Motivational Self System (L2MSS) by advocating for an immediate cessation of its use in the absence of substantial revision and validation. We revisit foundational studies in the tradition, exposing critical methodological flaws that we feel undermine empirical support for the model. Further, we examine systemic factors that contributed to the largely uncritical acceptance of the model. Drawing on our own experiences, we reflect on how these dynamics have obstructed the adoption of more robust motivational theories available in psychology and education. We further caution that without a stronger emphasis on validating measurement instruments, similar distractions may continue to hinder progress in the field.

Keywords

construct validityCronbach’s alphaindividual differencesL2 Motivational Self Systemmotivation
Type
Critical Commentary
Information
Studies in Second Language Acquisition , First View , pp. 1 - 12
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Copyright
© The Author(s), 2025. Published by Cambridge University Press

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