Do emotional regulation behaviors matter in EFL teachers' professional development? A process model approach

Abstract

The effectiveness of pedagogical approaches to teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) can be enhanced by ensuring that teachers are in a psychologically sound state, allowing them to upgrade their professional skills. Emotional regulation (ER) is acknowledged as a key factor in enhancing one’s professional capabilities. However, research in this area is notably underdeveloped. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the utilization level and impact of ER strategies on EFL teachers’ professional development in Chinese higher educational institutions. The research used a survey approach, employing questionnaires as the primary means of data collection. The data was then analysed through structural equation modelling and a descriptive statistical approach. The findings provide evidence that EFL teachers effectively employ various ER strategies to navigate the challenges inherent in the classroom, underscoring their adaptability and resilience. Moreover, the study identified a significant relationship between the use of ER and EFL teachers’ professional development. These findings highlight the essential role of emotional regulation in the teaching journeys of EFL educators and underscore the importance of integrating emotional regulation training into teacher development programs. FUNDING INFORMATION. This study is supported by the Education and Teaching Research Project of Henan Province, China (Grant No. 2022SYJXLX051), and the Education and Teaching Research Project of the International Cooperation and Exchange Division, Ministry of Education, China. (Grant No. (2023) No. 156).