Language and Identity Theory

Question 1

Thornborrow (2004)

Answer 1

Argues that language is a key way we construct identity; “who we are” is often shaped by how we speak and how others perceive us through language.

Question 2

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

Answer 2

Suggests that the language we use shapes our thoughts and worldview, meaning our identity is closely tied to the language(s) we speak.

Question 3

Penelope Eckert (2000)

Answer 3

Emphasises that identity is not just based on demographics (age, gender, class) but also on social practices; people construct identity through linguistic choices like slang or style.

Question 4

Howard Giles

Answer 4

Communication Accomodation Theory (CAT)- People adapt their language to either converge with or diverge from others, helping shape group identity and signal in-group/ out-group membership.

Question 5

Labov (1966)

Answer 5

Showed how language variation correlates with social identity (e.g., class), as seen in his NYC department store study or the /r/ sound.

Question 6

Peter Trudgill (1974)

Answer 6

Found that men and women use non-standard forms differently to construct social identity (e.g. men aiming for covert prestige, women for overt prestige)