Language use in old age *critique
Language in old age becomes as simple as in childhood. Older people tend to use as simple words as possible, short phrases, and often due to some diseases that are “normal” for that period, they lose the ability to speak fluently and correctly.
Against teenagers using slang (3)
- Employability Concerns:
Some schools have implemented policies to limit the use of slang to better prepare students for professional environments. For instance, Sheffield Springs Academy in the UK instructed students to avoid slang words like “hiya,” “cheers,” and “ta,” aiming to enhance their prospects of securing top jobs by ensuring they can use standard English appropriately in formal situations. - Professionalism in Communication:
Educators have observed that excessive use of slang can hinder students’ ability to communicate effectively in formal settings. Angela Santalo, a science teacher in Florida, banned various Gen Z slang terms in her classroom to encourage more educated speech and appropriate communication. She noted that while students initially resisted, they adapted and recognized the importance of proper language use in certain contexts.- Potential for Misunderstanding and Exclusion:
The use of slang, especially terms that can be used negatively, may lead to misunderstandings or exclusion. For example, certain slang terms have been identified as tools for body shaming among teens, which can harm self-esteem and perpetuate unrealistic body standards.
- Potential for Misunderstanding and Exclusion:
For teenagers using slang (4)
- Cultural Expression and Identity Formation:
Slang allows teenagers to express their unique cultural identities and foster a sense of belonging within their peer groups. For instance, terms like “bussin’”—originating from African American Vernacular English (AAVE) to describe something excellent or delicious—have been adopted widely among youth, reflecting cultural blending and identity formation.- Linguistic Creativity and Adaptability:
The creation and use of slang demonstrate linguistic innovation and adaptability. Teenagers often coin new terms or repurpose existing ones, showcasing creativity in language use. This dynamic evolution keeps the language vibrant and responsive to contemporary experiences. - Social Connection and Group Cohesion:
Using slang can strengthen social bonds among teenagers, creating a sense of community and shared understanding. It acts as a linguistic code that distinguishes their group from others, fostering unity and mutual identity. - Engagement with Digital Culture:
In the digital age, slang terms often emerge from online platforms, reflecting engagement with digital culture. Terms like “brain rot,” referring to the mental state from consuming low-value online content, highlight how youth language evolves with technology, encapsulating their experiences in the digital realm.
- Linguistic Creativity and Adaptability:
The blog by GYMGLISH
Enhanced Language Learning:
Incorporating slang into language learning can accelerate understanding and provide insights into cultural nuances. It moves learners beyond textbook phrases, offering a more authentic grasp of the language as used in real-life contexts.
Fears of language deterioration due to younger generations linguistic habits
What do these demonstrate
Ancient Mesopotamia:
- a senior scribe lamented the declining writing skills of junior scribes, effectively stating that “young people can’t write properly.”
In contemporary times:
- The Plain English Campaign, has highlighted fears that new words and slang are corrupting the English language.
- They argue that the proliferation of such terms leads to a decline in linguistic standards, suggesting that “new words are going to destroy the English language, Britain, and probably your children’s brains.”
These examples illustrate a recurring pattern: Recentism.
Plain English campaign quote
“new words are going to destroy the English language, Britain, and probably your children’s brains.”
Aitchinson Language change fears
Crumbling Castle - the fear that any change will cause a deterioration to the overall ‘health of the language’
E.g. Language simplification. Shortenings such as ‘rizz’ for Charisma are prevalent in teen speak
Criticism of that: the writings of a scribe from ancient civilisation suggest that there has never been a ‘golden age’ of language - but there have always been fears concerning it changing.
Issues with preventing the establishing of identity through language
Brunel University:
Stigmatization and Discrimination: Policies that ban non-standard language and slang can make young people feel stigmatized and discriminated against, leading them to believe their natural way of speaking is worthless. This can negatively impact their self-esteem and willingness to participate in educational settings.
Reduced Classroom Participation:
Criticizing or correcting students for using their natural speech patterns may discourage them from engaging in class discussions, hindering their learning and expression.
The reality = Biadilectalism
Bidialectalism refers to the ability to fluently use two dialects of the same language - A form of code switching.
Saying that the use of informal youth speech will have adverse effects on their academic success entirely dismisses the reality that the majority of adolescence who use slang (other features) are aware of their divergence from standard forms.
Those who do incorporate it into formal settings are aware of this - it’s just a part of their identity is that they dont seek overt prestige.
So to vilify the language use of adolesece is to vilify their identity. If you want to control language use you are directly controlling individuals expression of identity - which is a slippery slope into full authoritarian regime.
Functional theory applied
Heuristic Function – Language is used to learn and explore.
• Example: Adopting and experimenting with new slang helps young people navigate social spaces and adapt to different peer groups.
Imaginative Function – Language is used for creativity, humor, and storytelling.
• Example: Internet slang and memes (e.g., “rizz” for charisma or “delulu” for delusional optimism) showcase linguistic creativity among youths.
Instrumental Function – Language is used to fulfil needs. For young people, slang helps them request, persuade, or get what they want in peer interactions.
• Example: Using terms like “link me” (meaning meet up) to arrange social plans.
Interactional Function – Language is used to build and maintain relationships.
• Example: Slang creates in-group identity, reinforcing social bonds (e.g., calling friends “bruv”, “bestie”, or “fam”).
Linguistic reflectionism applied
Changing Social Realities – language is dynamic and constantly evolving (David Crystal) . The way young people use language is a response to shifting social realities such as changing technology, the rise of global interconnectedness, and transformations in social hierarchies and power dynamics.
Social Identity and Group Belonging – Linguistic reflectionism posits that language is a tool for expressing social identities (Relfects our sociocultural climate). Young people often use language to signal group membership or differentiate themselves from older generations.
