Examining the Effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy on Self-Efficacy of French Third Language Learners in Nigeria: A Mixed-Method Study

Abstract

Self-efficacy is regarded in literature as a crucial element necessary for successful third language acquisition, yet many French third language learners in Nigeria struggle with low self-efficacy beliefs that limits their engagement and performance. This study examined the effect of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) on self-efficacy of French third language learners in Federal universities in Southeast, Nigeria using a mixed-methods design. The quantitative aspect adopted a quasi-experimental design with pretest–posttest control group while the qualitative aspect adopted a phenomenological approach. Sixty participants with low to moderate self-efficacy were selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure and assigned equally to experimental and control groups. The CBT intervention was applied to the experimental group for eight weeks. Quantitative data were gathered using an adapted Foreign Language Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (FLSEQ) and analyzed with ANCOVA and Repeated Measures ANOVA. The qualitative data were obtained through session evaluation protocols and semi-structured interviews and were analyzed through Thematic Content Analysis. Quantitative findings showed that CBT did not significantly improve self-efficacy. However, qualitative findings pointed to meaningful increases in learners’ confidence and willingness to attempt French tasks. These findings suggest that though meaningful increase in learners’ self-efficacy may have occurred, they were not yet developed enough to yield significant statistical change. Further findings also revealed that participants maintained their improved self-efficacy at follow-up. Discussion was based on the findings, leading to the conclusion that CBT appears effective in promoting early changes in self-efficacy, but extended CBT interventions may be necessary to convert these initial changes into statistically significant results.&nbsp