Social Psychological Perspectives on Second Language Learning

For a very long time aptitude and intelligence were considered to be the most important determinants of proficiency in a second language. However in recent decades scholars have increasingly become interested in the social and psychological aspects of second language learning and communication. This volume examines the role of these factors - especially those pertaining to attitude and motivation - in second language learning and communication in different socio-cultural settings. The contributors present primarily empirical research from diverse multilingual and pluricultural societies including Britain, the USA, India, Hong Kong and South Africa. Some essays offer insights into the pressures that minority language groups face while learning the majority language in the host culture, while others explore social and psychological variables that explain variables in the levels of proficiency attained by learners of a second language in non-native settings. Issues of bilingualism and intergenerational communication are also discussed. Each essay is thoroughly researched and theoretically sound, and captures the complexity of the milieu it describes. Offering a comprehensive range of social and psychological perspectives, the volume provides fresh inputs for those engaged in theorizing about second language learning. It will be of interest to professionals and scholars in the fields of linguistics, psychology and education. Neurolinguists, literary specialists and foreign language teachers will also find it useful.