HLIN1644 Assignment 1 (Language choice and code switching) [50 points]

Question

1. Write a description of Speech Accommodation Theory addressing the following:
-Definition and background or foundations of the theory
-Two basic forms of accommodation: convergence and divergence
-discuss how they are applicable to your linguistic environment
-Two social factors which either facilitate or hinder accommodation

Important reminders
• This should be a four pages long essay excluding the reference page.
• Provide at least 6 scholarly references.

Answer 1

Speech Accommodation Theory, also known as Communication Accommodation Theory (CAT), is a sociolinguistic theory that focuses on how individuals adjust their speech patterns to adapt to the communication style of their interlocutors. This theory is grounded in the idea that individuals have a natural tendency to seek social approval and establish rapport with others through communication. CAT was developed by Howard Giles in the 1970s and has since been expanded upon by various researchers.

The primary aim of Speech Accommodation Theory is to understand the social and psychological factors that influence the ways in which individuals modify their speech. The theory proposes that accommodation can occur in two basic forms: convergence and divergence. Convergence, also known as accommodation or adaptation, refers to the adjustment of speech patterns to be more similar to those of the interlocutor. This may involve adopting the other person's vocabulary, pronunciation, intonation, or speaking speed. On the other hand, divergence refers to the deliberate accentuation of speech differences to highlight one's own social identity or to create distance from the interlocutor.

In my linguistic environment, which consists of a multicultural and multilingual community, the application of convergence and divergence is quite prevalent. For instance, convergence is frequently observed when individuals with different dialects or accents interact. They may subconsciously adjust their speech patterns to match those of their interlocutors in order to establish rapport and avoid potential miscommunication. This convergence can be seen by speakers code-switching between languages or adopting certain linguistic features of the other person's speech. On the other hand, divergence may be evident in situations where individuals intentionally emphasize their linguistic differences to assert their social identity or to distance themselves from certain groups. This divergence is often seen in instances of intergroup communication, where individuals may cling to their own distinct linguistic features as a way to maintain group identity.

Several social factors can either foster or hinder the process of accommodation. One factor that facilitates accommodation is social norms. When there are established norms that encourage individuals to adapt their speech to be more similar to others, convergence is more likely to occur. These norms may be explicit, such as language policies in educational or professional settings that promote a standardized form of communication. Alternatively, social norms can be implicit, such as the desire to fit in with a particular group or community. In such cases, individuals may naturally converge to the speech patterns of others to avoid being perceived as an outsider.

Another facilitating factor is the power dynamics between individuals. Accommodation is more likely to occur when there is a power imbalance, with individuals in lower power positions more likely to converge to those in higher power positions. This can be seen in situations where employees or students modify their speech to match that of their supervisors or teachers. The desire for social approval or fear of negative repercussions can drive individuals to accommodate to the speech patterns of those in authority.

Conversely, accommodation can be hindered by factors such as social identity and intergroup dynamics. Individuals may resist convergence when they perceive a threat to their social identity or group affiliation. This may manifest as an intentional divergence in speech patterns to maintain a sense of group identity or to resist assimilation into a dominant culture. Additionally, negative stereotypes or prejudices held by individuals towards certain social groups can hinder accommodation, as individuals may purposefully maintain linguistic differences as a means of expressing their social distance or superiority.

In conclusion, Speech Accommodation Theory provides valuable insights into the ways in which individuals adapt their speech patterns in social interactions. Through convergence and divergence, individuals navigate their linguistic environment to establish rapport or assert their social identity. Social factors such as social norms and power dynamics can either facilitate or hinder accommodation. Understanding the mechanisms of speech accommodation can enhance our understanding of sociolinguistic dynamics and contribute to effective communication in diverse contexts.