Mindfulness, Humility, and Reflexivity: Tracing Intercultural Growth in Family-Based EFL Interaction

Abstract

In English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learning, intercultural studies often focus on international or classroom-based contexts; limited attention has been given to how intercultural development occurs within the family environment. Addressing this gap, the present study investigates how mindfulness, humility, and reflexivity shape intercultural growth through family-based EFL interaction in Indonesia. Using an ethnographic approach, the research analyses naturally occurring conversations among four EFL students and their family members during home-based learning. The findings reveal three developmental orientations: attitude-based growth (Manda and Ansar), knowledge-based growth (Edwin), and skill-based growth (Fahmi), forming a continuum of intercultural development from awareness to transformation. The study proposes that family communication functions as an “at-home intercultural laboratory,” where emotional intimacy, moral dialogue, and reflection foster ethical and relational understanding. These insights extend the intercultural communicative competence model and introduce the triadic framework of mindfulness, humility, and reflexivity.