Blurb:

Chapter 5 discusses sociopsychological factors in language learning, mainly focusing on attitudes and motivation in the context of learning Arabic in Israel. It highlights the complex relationship between language attitudes, societal dynamics, and learning outcomes. Negative attitudes toward Arabic and its speakers among Jewish students in Israel stem from sociopolitical tensions and perceptions of Arabs as a threat. Studies reveal low motivation to learn Arabic beyond instrumental purposes, such as military service. Even positive attitudes among younger students learning Arabic in elementary school diminish as they progress to junior high and high school. The sociopolitical context, including stereotypes and conflicts, profoundly influences students' attitudes and motivation to learn Arabic, posing significant challenges to fostering cross-cultural understanding and language proficiency.