The Cognitive Neuroscience of Bilingualism

The Cognitive Neuroscience of Bilingualism provides an introduction to the neural bases and cognitive processes of the bilingual brain, covering topics such as bilingual development, brain plasticity, aphasia, cross-linguistic effects, and more. It is the first book to bring together psychological and theoretical issues of bilingualism with respect to language processing and representation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 260 pages
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The Cognitive Neuroscience of Bilingualism is a comprehensive exploration of the neural foundations and cognitive processes underlying bilingualism. It serves as an essential introduction to the field, covering foundational knowledge and prominent theories and research methodologies. The book delves into various aspects of bilingualism, including bilingual development, brain plasticity, aphasia, cross-linguistic effects, bilingual lexical and conceptual memory, and cognitive and neurocognitive effects.

This groundbreaking work is the first of its kind to bring together the diverse psychological and theoretical perspectives of bilingualism with respect to language processing and representation. It provides valuable insights into the intricate workings of the bilingual brain, shedding light on the remarkable abilities and challenges that bilingual individuals encounter.

Bilingual development is a central theme in the book, as it explores how bilingualism affects language acquisition, processing, and usage. The authors discuss the different stages of bilingualism and the cognitive strategies that individuals employ to navigate between their two languages. They also examine the brain mechanisms that support bilingualism, including language-specific areas in the brain and the interplay between them.

Brain plasticity is another key aspect of the book, as it explores how the bilingual brain adapts and changes over time. The authors discuss the neural mechanisms that underpin language learning and the role of practice and experience in shaping brain structure and function. They also explore the potential benefits of bilingualism, such as enhanced cognitive flexibility, problem-solving skills, and cognitive reserve.

Aphasia, a language disorder that affects communication and cognition, is also examined in detail. The authors discuss the effects of bilingualism on aphasia patients and the cognitive strategies that they employ to compensate for their language deficits. They also explore the role of bilingualism in aphasia recovery and the potential benefits of bilingual therapy.

Cross-linguistic effects of bilingualism are another important topic covered in the book. The authors discuss the cognitive and linguistic advantages of being bilingual, such as enhanced memory, problem-solving skills, and cognitive flexibility. They also explore the challenges that bilinguals face in switching between their languages and the strategies that they employ to maintain proficiency language proficiency.

Bilingual lexical and conceptual memory is another critical area of study, as it explores how bilinguals store and retrieve words and concepts in their two languages. The authors discuss the different types of memory systems that support bilingualism, including semantic memory, phonological memory, and visual memory. They also explore the neural mechanisms that underpin these memory systems and the role of language proficiency and cognitive strategies in memory maintenance.

Cognitive and neurocognitive effects of bilingualism are also explored in the book. The authors discuss the cognitive advantages of being bilingual, such as enhanced executive function, multitasking abilities, and cognitive flexibility. They also explore the neural mechanisms that underpin these cognitive benefits, including the role of language-specific areas in the brain and the interplay between them.

In conclusion, The Cognitive Neuroscience of Bilingualism is a groundbreaking work that provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to the neural bases and cognitive processes of bilingualism. It is an essential resource for scholars, researchers, and practitioners interested in bilingualism, language processing, and cognitive psychology. The book offers valuable insights into the diverse psychological and theoretical issues of bilingualism, shedding light on the remarkable abilities and challenges that bilingual individuals encounter. By integrating the latest research findings with practical applications, the authors have created a comprehensive and engaging text that will be of great interest to a wide range of readers.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 152 x 229 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781316647790