The role of language within the context of migrants’ identity and acculturation

Abstract

Purpose. Current political and social development underscores the importance of language in the context of the national, cultural, and social identity of an individual. Notably, the matter of language and its functions becomes more prominent within the framework of effective integration of migrants into a foreign language environment. According to recent research and population surveys in multicultural societies, language is a critical aspect of integration. Therefore, it facilitates migrants’ acculturation. The purpose of the article is to review and analyze existing theories of linguistic communication in the context of personal identity. Method. To reach the declared objective, basic methods of theoretical research have been utilized, namely analysis, synthesis, comparison, and generalization. Results. In 2017, the Pew Research Center in Washington published the results of a worldwide survey, featuring migrants as central respondents. The study shows that mastering the language of the dominant majority is a prerequisite for becoming an integral part of society. To examine the impact of language on the lives of migrants in a foreign language environment, numerous theories on language communication have been developed. One of the most renowned theories regarding the phenomenon of identity is the social identity theory (SIT), which considers language a sign a person utilizes to indicate their social identity and affiliation to a certain group. Ethnolinguistic identity theory (EIT) highlights the interdependence between ethnic and linguistic identities. The emphasis is put not only on speech actions but also on the socio-psychological processes that underlie intercultural communication. Socio-psychological factors that influence the process of communication between different speakers constitute the subject matter of the communication accommodation theory (CAT). In the process of such communication, elimination of speech differences or, conversely, their accentuation occurs (i.e. through a dialect or sociolect). Conclusions. In the context of acculturation, language functions as a medium for the exchange of information regarding affiliation with a particular social group. Furthermore, dialects and accents indicate the peculiarities of one’s regional origin. Migrants use dialects and accents to identify themselves with certain social groups. Knowledge of the language of the dominant majority opens up additional prospects for study and work, whereas knowledge of the language of one's ethnic group allows maintaining contacts with their ethnic community. This is the core principle of integration and consequently effective acculturation. The conclusions and generalizations obtained are to be used in an empirical study concerning the psychology of acculturation of foreign students to a foreign language environment.