Subtractive bilingualism

Definition

Subtractive bilingualism refers to a phenomenon where an individual learns a second language at the expense of their first language, leading to a decline in proficiency or even loss of the first language. This often occurs in environments where the second language is more dominant and used frequently, which can negatively impact the maintenance of the first language.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subtractive bilingualism is often observed in immigrant communities where the second language, usually the dominant language of the society, is heavily emphasized in schools and social settings.
2. Children experiencing subtractive bilingualism may initially show high proficiency in their first language, but as they are exposed more to the second language, their skills in their first language may decline.
3. This phenomenon can lead to feelings of cultural disconnection and identity issues for individuals who feel they are losing touch with their linguistic heritage.
4. Educational systems that prioritize the second language over the first can inadvertently promote subtractive bilingualism, especially if there is insufficient support for maintaining the first language.
5. Subtractive bilingualism can have long-term implications on cognitive development, social integration, and emotional well-being as individuals navigate their linguistic identities.

Review Questions

• How does subtractive bilingualism affect an individual's relationship with their first language?
  • Subtractive bilingualism can create a significant impact on an individual's relationship with their first language by diminishing their proficiency and usage over time. As individuals become more immersed in a second language environment, they may find themselves using their first language less frequently, leading to a gradual decline in fluency. This shift not only affects communication but can also create feelings of alienation from one’s cultural roots and identity tied to the first language.
• Evaluate the role of educational practices in either promoting or mitigating subtractive bilingualism in students.
  • Educational practices play a crucial role in shaping whether students experience subtractive bilingualism. Programs that prioritize immersion in the second language without providing adequate support for the first language can contribute to this phenomenon. Conversely, educational frameworks that encourage additive bilingualism by valuing and incorporating students' first languages alongside teaching a second language can help mitigate the risks of subtractive bilingualism. This approach not only promotes linguistic skills but also fosters a sense of cultural identity and belonging.
• Critically analyze how subtractive bilingualism might influence broader societal attitudes towards minority languages and cultures.
  • Subtractive bilingualism can significantly shape societal attitudes towards minority languages and cultures by reinforcing a hierarchy that privileges the dominant language. As individuals lose proficiency in their first languages, it may lead to diminished visibility and appreciation for those languages within society. This trend can foster negative stereotypes about minority cultures, perpetuating feelings of inferiority or worthlessness associated with non-dominant languages. The consequences are profound, as they not only affect individual identities but can also contribute to cultural homogenization and loss of linguistic diversity within communities.

Related terms

Additive bilingualism: A situation in which learning a second language enhances and adds to the proficiency of the first language without diminishing it.

Language shift: The process by which a community or individual gradually adopts a new language, resulting in the decline or loss of their original language.

Code-switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects within a conversation or discourse, often used by bilingual individuals.