Exploring the parallel mediating roles of self-regulation, motivation, and self-efficacy in the relationship between shame and growth mindset

Background: Shame, a self-conscious emotion strongly shaped by face concern in collectivist cultures, can undermine essential psychological processes in second language learning. This study examines how shame influences growth mindset indirectly through three key mediators: motivation, self-efficacy, and self-regulation. 

Methods: A total of 817 Chinese university students completed validated questionnaires measuring shame, motivation, self-efficacy, self-regulation, and growth mindset. Data were analyzed using correlational analyses and mediation models with bootstrapping.

Results: Shame was not significantly associated with growth mindset. However, it indirectly related to the development of a growth mindset by lowering motivation, reducing self-efficacy, and impairing self-regulation.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the pathways through which shame erodes growth-oriented beliefs, underscoring the need for culturally responsive teaching strategies that strengthen students’ psychological resilience and reframe mistakes as opportunities for learning.