Back to Search Start Over

Bilingualism with minority languages: Why searching for unicorn language users does not move us forward.

Authors :
Leivada, Evelina
Rodríguez-Ordóñez, Itxaso
Parafita Couto, M. Carmen
Perpiñán, Sílvia
Source :
Applied Psycholinguistics; May2023, Vol. 44 Issue 3, p384-399, 16p
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

This paper addresses several problematic scientific practices in psycholinguistic research. We discuss challenges that arise when working with minority languages, such as the notion of monolingual/monocultural normality and its historical origins, the stereotype of native-speakerism, the quest for testing people who fit specific profiles, the implications of the policy that urges scholars to match bilingual groups to monolingual comparison groups, and the use of powerful theoretical narratives that may evoke problematic labels and ableist terminology. These issues invest the field of psycholinguistics with questionable practices that contribute to the marginalization of groups that do not tick the standard normative boxes. Surveying some of the most widespread scientific practices in the field of psycholinguistics, our emphasis is on how several processes and policies may embody stereotypes that contribute to the exclusion of certain groups from the scientific literature, with grievous consequences for the visibility and the representation of some minoritized languages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
01427164
Volume :
44
Issue :
3
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Applied Psycholinguistics
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
163910619
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1017/S0142716423000036