Communications in Humanities Research ISSN: 2753-7072
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Research Article

Social-Emotional Learning in China and the United States: A Comparative Analysis of Themes and Patterns

Jingqian LuoThe University of Sydney* Xinyue QuHuaibei Normal University Yiwen ZhangUniversity College London

* Corresponding author: [email protected]

Abstract

This essay examines the differences and commonalities in Social-Emotional Learning(SEL) approaches between China and the United States through a systematic literature review. Grounded in Vygotsky’s sociocultural theory, the research systematically analyses 28 studies from the COVIDENCE database, and we identify three key themes—cultural tools, SEL dimensions, and intervention types across China and the United States, shaping distinct patterns in SEL dimensions and intervention strategies. This study examines how digital (e.g., AI-driven apps) and manual tools (e.g., face-to-face role-playing), contrasting SEL patterns (individualism vs. collectivism), and distinct policy frameworks (centralized vs. decentralized) (Triandis, 2018) mediate the implementation of social-emotional learning (SEL) across China and the United States, shaping distinct patterns in SEL dimensions and intervention strategies. This study reviews how contrasting digital (e.g., AI-driven apps) and manual tools (e.g., face-to-face role-playing), SEL patterns (individualism vs. collectivism), and distinct policy frameworks (centralized vs. decentralized) mediate the implementation of social-emotional learning (SEL) across China and the United States, shaping distinct patterns in SEL dimensions and intervention strategies. Findings reveal that these factors mediate distinct national approaches to SEL. While Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) is recognized globally as essential for student development, its implementation varies significantly between China and the United States due to cultural, pedagogical, and technological differences. This research highlights the necessity of culturally adaptive SEL strategies and provides insights for cross-national educational collaboration.

Keywords: China-U.S.education comparison; Social-emotional learning (SEL); Sociocultural theory; Cultural adaptation
Published: November 26, 2025
DOI: 10.54254/2753-7064/2025.NS29972
Volume: CHR Vol.98
pp. 166-173
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