Language Variation and Language Change Across the Lifespan: Theoretical and Empirical Perspectives from Panel Studies

This volume examines the impact of maturation and lifespan-specific effects on linguistic malleability in the post-adolescent speaker, drawing on research from various linguistic disciplines. It provides a critical examination of panel research across different geographic regions and time periods and seeks to offer a way forward in the debates surrounding later-life language change.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 286 pages
\n Publication date: 31 March 2021
\n Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
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This comprehensive volume brings together cutting-edge research on panel studies, with the ultimate goal of establishing a robust empirical and theoretical foundation for exploring the influence of maturation and lifespan-specific effects on linguistic malleability in the post-adolescent speaker. Building upon the pioneering work of Wagner and Buchstaller (2018), this collection critically examines the theoretical implications of panel research across diverse geographic regions and historical periods. Its primary objective is to provide a forward-thinking approach to the ongoing debates surrounding later-life language change, drawing upon contributions from a wide range of linguistic disciplines to investigate critical topics such as the impact of linguistic architecture, the roles of mobility and identity construction, and the consequences of frequency effects. By consolidating these diverse perspectives, the volume aims to shed light on the intricate nature of lifespan change and offer valuable insights for students and researchers in cognitive linguistics, historical linguistics, dialectology, and variationist sociolinguistics.

Panel studies have emerged as a powerful tool for investigating linguistic change over time, allowing researchers to examine the effects of maturation, life events, and other factors on language development. This volume showcases the latest research in this field, exploring a wide range of topics and methodologies.

One of the key themes of the volume is the impact of linguistic architecture on linguistic malleability. Linguistic architecture refers to the underlying structure of a language, including its grammar, vocabulary, and phonology. Researchers have shown that linguistic architecture can influence how individuals acquire and use language, and can even contribute to language change over time. For example, languages with more complex grammatical structures may be more difficult to learn, but may also offer more opportunities for grammatical innovation and change.

Another important topic explored in the volume is the role of mobility and identity construction in linguistic change. Mobility, whether geographic or social, can have a significant impact on language development and usage. Individuals who move to new regions or communities may adopt new linguistic features or patterns to fit in with their new surroundings, or may lose their native language altogether. Identity construction, on the other hand, can also play a role in linguistic change, as individuals may adopt new linguistic features or patterns to express their identity and belonging.

Frequency effects are also a critical topic of investigation in this volume. Frequency effects refer to the changes that occur in language over time as a result of increased or decreased usage. For example, words or phrases that are used more frequently may become more common or standard, while those that are used less frequently may become less common or archaic. Frequency effects can have a significant impact on language change, as they can influence the survival and evolution of different linguistic features.

The volume also includes chapters that explore the relationship between linguistic malleability and other aspects of human development, such as cognitive development, socialization, and education. Researchers have shown that linguistic malleability is not just a matter of individual linguistic ability, but is also influenced by a wide range of social and cultural factors. For example, children who receive more language exposure in their early years may be more likely to develop more complex language skills, while individuals who participate in more social activities may be more likely to adopt new linguistic features or patterns.

In conclusion, this volume provides a comprehensive and up-to-date examination of the impact of maturation and lifespan-specific effects on linguistic malleability in the post-adolescent speaker. By drawing upon a wide range of linguistic disciplines and methodologies, the volume offers valuable insights into the complex nature of language change and its relationship to other aspects of human development. It will be an essential resource for students and researchers in cognitive linguistics, historical linguistics, dialectology, and variationist sociolinguistics.

\n Weight: 580g\n
Dimension: 159 x 236 x 24 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780367141219\n \n