The role of individual differences in second language pragmatics: A systematic review

Abstract

The current systematic review aims to understand the role of individual differences (IDs) in second language (L2) pragmatics and offer recommendations for further research in this domain. To achieve this, 86 empirical studies in L2 pragmatics published in SSCI (Social Science Citation Index) journals from 2000 to 2023 were systematically selected and coded for IDs, pragmatic features and modalities investigated, methodological orientation, and research findings. The significance of this review paper is the inclusion of both qualitative and quantitative findings and the identification of research trends in the last two decades. This inclusive approach allowed us to reveal the extent to which ID factors were studied within the classic research paradigm (i.e., the influence of IDs in isolation) and the socio-dynamic research paradigm (i.e., the combined influence of IDs and context over time). Findings revealed that the IDs identified (L2 proficiency, identity, intercultural competence, language mindsets, willingness to communicate, motivation, and cognitive factors) exerted considerable influence on L2 pragmatic competence. Accounting for research gaps, trends in methodology, and findings in the area, we provide specific recommendations for future research to bring the study of L2 pragmatics in line with the ‘affective turn’ in second language acquisition.