Reported Language Use as a Predictor of Attitudes Toward Code-Switching
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Code-switching refers to a bilingual’s ability to switch between languages within a single utterance (Poplack, 1980). Previous research has shown that perceptions of code-switching are based on a dynamic interaction of factors that include context, social norms, and speakers’ identities within a group (Genesee & Bourhis, 1982). The present study was interested in observing how ethnic identification, language proficiency, and language use in Spanish-English bilinguals with family members and peers affected attitudes towards code-switching. It was hypothesized that reported language use would affect attitudes toward code-switching. Specifically, we predicted that more reported use of both languages would yield more favorable views of code-switching. 146 Spanish-English bilinguals from a southwestern university completed an online language background questionnaire that consisted of questions on self-rated language proficiency, language use, and ethnic identity. Results are discussed in how language usage influences attitudes and use of code-switching.