Exploring Personality Traits as Predictors of the Number of Languages Learned and Their Degree of Proficiency

Abstract

The ability to acquire and master multiple languages is a fascinating phenomenon, influenced by a multitude of factors. Among these factors, personality traits have gained considerable attention as potential predictors of language learning success. Understanding these relationships can inform language education strategies, providing insights into effective pedagogical approaches tailored to learners' individual traits and needs. Consequently, this paper presents a review of existing literature investigating the relationship between personality traits and the number of languages learned, as well as their degree of proficiency. Posterior to the review of literature, a questionnaire was created and distributed to 169 participants in order to measure their personality traits in relation to the number of languages spoken and their degree of proficiency in five language skills. Results revealed significant correlations between the personality traits of Neuroticism and Conscientiousness and language proficiency in several language skills. In addition, further correlations were drawn between the number of languages spoken by language learners and the different purposes for learning it.