Investigating the Psychological Insights of Spelling Bee Participation: A Focus on Self-Esteem and Motivation Among Underachievers

Siti Zarikh Sofiah Abu Bakar, Zuraidah Sumery, Diana Othman, Norhafizah Amir, Haniza Sarijari and Dia Widyawati Amat
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Siti Zarikh Sofiah Abu Bakar: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor
Zuraidah Sumery: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor
Diana Othman: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor
Norhafizah Amir: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor
Haniza Sarijari: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor
Dia Widyawati Amat: Academy of Language Studies, UiTM Cawangan Johor

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science, 2025, vol. 9, issue 22, 387-393

Abstract: Underachievers are often associated with low self-esteem and motivation, especially in joining non-academic activities at their academic institution. This study aims to investigate the psychological insights of spelling bee participation; focusing on self-esteem and motivation among underachievers. A quantitative approach was used to obtain the data; questionnaires. The study used purposive sampling involving 30 pre-diploma students from University Technology MARA (UiTM) Cawangan Johor. The students were required to answer the questionnaires focusing on their self-esteem, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation in relation to their participation in a spelling bee competition. The data were analysed using SPSS: descriptive statistics for mean and frequencies. The findings revealed an average self-esteem among the underachievers for their confidence in spelling bee participation. Meanwhile, the main intrinsic motivation for them to participate in a spelling bee competition are their self-accomplishment and self-pride benefits. Other than that, the underachievers had an average mean score for the external rewards offered by the competition thus explains the extrinsic motivation involved. The findings suggest that more positive psychological approaches to be conducted in elevating the underachievers’ self-confidence by highlighting both intrinsic and extrinsic motivation.

Date: 2025
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