The impact of L2 motivation on bilingual creativity: A serial mediation analysis

Previous studies have shown that bilingualism can offer a cognitive advantage in creativity, yet the mechanisms underlying this effect remain unclear. The present study aims to investigate the influence of L2 motivation, language proficiency, and reflection on creativity among bilinguals, examining how these factors may contribute directly and indirectly to creative performance. Two sub-studies were conducted. In Study 1, 54 bilingual participants completed an L2 motivation survey, an L2 proficiency scale, and a creativity test. Results showed positive relationships between motivation, proficiency, and creativity, with proficiency serving as a mediator between motivation and creativity. In Study 2, a larger sample of 218 bilingual participants completed the same surveys along with additional measures of reflection and creativity. Findings reinforced those of Study 1, indicating that L2 motivation positively influenced creativity through both L2 proficiency and reflection, which acted as serial mediators. These results suggest that L2 motivation plays a crucial role in enhancing bilinguals' creative performance, both directly and indirectly, through its effect on L2 proficiency and reflection. The study provides novel insights into the cognitive mechanisms of bilingual creativity and underscores the importance of motivation and proficiency in L2 acquisition for fostering creativity.