Language attrition in the context of immigration: The case of Sinhala

Abstract

This study originated from observations that features of Sinhala of Sri Lankan Sinhala as first language speakers in immigrant contexts seemed different from the norm. The study also problematized lack of studies on demographically smaller immigrant language communities, including Sinhala, on the premise they hold implications for identity, language maintenance, academia and policy development. Hypothesizing Sinhala is attriting due to a dominant L1 in immigrant contexts, an online questionnaire was administered to sixty-three respondents in five continents with over 73% in New Zealand and Australia. Qualitative data were collated using simple percentages and tabulated for clearer deductions with respondents’ views providing insights. Almost 46% have been immigrants for over 10 years and 11% between 20-30. Adults’ and children’s language use at home and outside, in country of origin and host-countries when juxtaposed revealed dramatic changes in language use. Adult-codeswitching had increased with children’s native language communication achieved primarily through codeswitching, with implications due to higher lexical mistakes than grammar. Most seemed unaware of consequences of language practices and believed Sinhala is being maintained effectively. Age at arrival, duration as immigrants, medium of instruction, educational level and attitudes revealed reasons for reduced inter-enerational language transmission. Psychosociolinguistic exploration of linguistic suicide and increasingly L2 porous domains which were earlier exclusively native language, supported existence of rapid attrition and tendency towards shift. Overall, the investigation revealed twenty-two factors supporting attrition and maintenance of Sinhala in adults and children. Recommendations were made for language practices in the home and community.