One-parent-one-language (Opol) families

Is the majority language-speaking parent instrumental in the minority language development

Bibliographic Data

ID20505016
AuthorsElizabeth Venables (Griffith University), Susana A Eisenchla (0000-0002-7700-8444, Griffith University, corresponding author), Susana A Eisenchlas, Andrea C Schalley (0000-0003-1323-1548, Griffith University)
Year2014
Volume17
Issue4
Pages429-448
Publication date2014-07-04
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessNo
TypeARTICLE
VenueInternational Journal of Bilingual Education and Bilingualism (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 1367-0050 • E-ISSN: 1747-7522
PublisherInforma UK Limited (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/13670050.2013.816263
OpenAlexW2126794680
LanguageEN
Citations received17
References cited21

The aim of this study is to examine the strategies majority language-speaking parents use to support the development of the minority language in families who follow the pattern of exposure known as one-parent-one-language (OPOL). In this particular pattern of raising a child bilingually, each parent speaks only their own native language to their children. Previous studies concerned with language development in children raised under the OPOL pattern primarily focused on how input from the minority language-speaking parent affects minority language development, leaving the role of the majority language-speaking parent largely unexplored. To address this gap, a case study was carried out on three families in Brisbane, Australia, who reported following the OPOL pattern. Video and audio recordings were taken, along with interviews using an elicited recall task based on the recordings to gather data on the families' language practices and motivations. The results of the qualitative analysis suggest that, in these families, the majority language-speaking parent plays an important role that extends beyond the provision of input in the majority language and may contribute to fostering minority language development and maintenance

Developmental psychology · First language · Language acquisition · Language development · Linguistics · Mathematics education · Minority language · Neuroscience of multilingualism · Language Development and Disorders · Language, Discourse, Communication Strategies · Multilingual Education and Policy · Psychology

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