Peer Relationships and Student Motivation: Theoretical and Methodological Approaches, Empirical Evidence, and Future Directions

Background: Motivation is central for student learning and achievement, yet it does not operate in isolation. Peer relationships play a fundamental role in shaping students' motivation, engagement, and academic development. Explicit investigation of the interplay between motivation and peer relationships is scarce, with especially the reciprocal and dynamic nature of these interactions still being little understood and of subject of the present issue.Aims: This special issue aims to bridge theoretical and methodological gaps in understanding how peer relationships shape and are shaped by student motivation. We explore key questions regarding the relevance of peer relationships in motivation research, the theoretical and methodological approaches applicable to this intersection, and cultural considerations in studying these dynamics.Samples and Methods: The special issue comprises 22 empirical and conceptual studies from diverse cultural and educational contexts, including primary, secondary, and higher education settings from multiple countries. Contributions employ varied methodologies, including longitudinal designs, social network analysis, qualitative interviews, and experience sampling, and experimental designs. Results: Findings highlight the bidirectional nature of peer relationships and motivation. Studies reveal that peer support, social norms, and network positioning influence motivation and academic outcomes, while students' motivational orientations also shape their peer interactions. Cultural variations suggest that the impact of peer dynamics on motivation differs based on sociocultural contexts. We synthesize these different pathways into a conceptual model.Conclusion: This special issue underscores the need for an integrative, interdisciplinary approach to studying peer relationships and student motivation. Future studies should explore their reciprocal nature using dynamic methodologies. Understanding these interactions can inform interventions to foster motivation and engagement in educational settings.