THE IMPACT OF STRESS AND ANXIETY ON COGNITIVE PROCESSES IN LANGUAGE ACQUISITION

Abstract

This paper explores the impact of stress and anxiety on cognitive processes involved in language acquisition. In foreign language learning, psychological factors significantly influence learners’ ability to perceive, process, and retain linguistic information. The study focuses on key cognitive mechanisms such as attention, working memory, information processing, and long-term memory formation, which are essential for successful language learning. High levels of stress and anxiety may interfere with these processes by reducing concentration, limiting cognitive resources, and increasing mental overload, which can negatively affect comprehension and language production. Drawing on insights from psycholinguistics and educational psychology, the paper examines how emotional states shape learners’ cognitive performance in classroom environments. Particular attention is given to the relationship between affective factors and learning outcomes. The findings highlight that moderate emotional regulation and supportive learning environments can help mitigate the negative influence of anxiety and enhance cognitive efficiency in language acquisition.