First Language Retention and Loss in Immigrant Communities
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Abstract
This article investigates the complex interplay of cognitive, psychological, and sociocultural factors that influence first language (L1) retention and loss among adult immigrants. Drawing on empirical studies across diverse linguistic communities, it identifies key variables such as community infrastructure, emotional investment, language dominance, and identity alignment as critical predictors of attrition. The study combines theoretical frameworks from bilingual memory research with real-world data on usage patterns, fluency decline, and lexical access difficulties. Findings show that L1 attrition is rarely uniform; it reflects dynamic shifts in motivation, exposure, and perceived language value. Visual data highlight significant variation in L1 use and erosion across immigrant contexts, reinforcing the argument that structural support plays a decisive role in language resilience. The article concludes by framing L1 retention not only as a matter of individual choice but also as an issue of linguistic equity. Recommendations include expanding heritage language education for adults, integrating multilingual policies in public services, and promoting societal attitudes that view L1 maintenance as a strength rather than a deficit.
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