Willingness to Communicate, Multilingualism and Interactions in Community Contexts

This book explores the willingness to communicate (WTC) of individuals who migrate, focusing on communication behaviors and language choice in multilingual community contexts. It demonstrates the dynamic nature of WTC and sheds light on processes that affect communication, migration, and well-being.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 344 pages
Publication date: 10 October 2023
Publisher: Multilingual Matters

This comprehensive book delves into an in-depth qualitative longitudinal study that explores the willingness to communicate (WTC) of individuals who have transitioned from one cultural or linguistic context to establish a new life in another. It examines the intricate dynamics of communication behaviors and language choices within multilingual community settings, highlighting the profound influence of past communication experiences on even the most seemingly mundane communication events. By employing a complexity lens and presenting a revised 3D pyramid model, the authors shed light on the dynamic nature of WTC and unveil the intricate processes that shape communication, migration, and overall well-being. This book holds significant appeal to researchers interested in exploring individual differences through context-sensitive and temporally focused designs.

The study conducted for this book involved a qualitative longitudinal approach, which allowed for a deep understanding of the participants' experiences and perspectives. The research was conducted over an extended period, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of the changes and developments in the participants' WTC over time. The study focused on individuals who had left their native cultural or linguistic context through various migration channels, such as immigration, refugee resettlement, or voluntary migration.

The findings of the study revealed that WTC is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that is influenced by a wide range of factors. The study identified several key factors that contribute to WTC, including language proficiency, cultural background, social networks, and individual personality traits. Language proficiency was found to be a significant factor in determining WTC, as individuals with higher levels of language proficiency were more likely to engage in communication with others. Cultural background also played a significant role, as individuals who had a strong cultural identity were more likely to maintain their language and cultural practices in their new environment. Social networks, including family, friends, and community organizations, were found to be important in facilitating WTC, as they provided a sense of belonging and support for individuals in their new environment. Individual personality traits, such as self-confidence, empathy, and openness to change, also played a role in determining WTC, as individuals who were more confident and empathetic were more likely to engage in communication with others.

The study also examined the communication behaviors and language choices of the participants in multilingual community contexts. The participants demonstrated a range of communication behaviors, including verbal communication, nonverbal communication, and digital communication. Verbal communication was the most common form of communication, with participants using a variety of languages to communicate with others. Nonverbal communication, such as facial expressions, gestures, and body language, was also important in facilitating communication, as it allowed for a deeper understanding of the emotions and intentions of the participants. Digital communication, such as email, social media, and messaging apps, was increasingly used by the participants to communicate with others, particularly those who were living in different parts of the world.

The study also emphasized the importance of understanding the emotional connections that are embedded in communication events. The participants described how their communication experiences were influenced by their emotions, including feelings of anxiety, fear, and loneliness. They also described how their emotions were influenced by their past communication experiences, such as experiences of discrimination or trauma. The study highlighted the need for communication practitioners to be aware of the emotional connections that are embedded in communication events and to provide support and guidance to individuals who may be experiencing emotional distress.

In conclusion, this book presents a comprehensive and insightful examination of the willingness to communicate of individuals who have transitioned from one cultural or linguistic context to another. The study highlights the complex and multifaceted nature of WTC and identifies several key factors that contribute to it. The study also examines the communication behaviors and language choices of the participants in multilingual community contexts and emphasizes the importance of understanding the emotional connections that are embedded in communication events. This book will be of interest to researchers, practitioners, and policymakers who are interested in understanding the dynamics of communication, migration, and well-being.

Weight: 528g
Dimension: 157 x 236 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800411937