Language Ideologies of Bilingual Latina Mothers

• In Event: Parents, Families, and Community Cultural Wealth

Abstract

This comparative multi-case study investigated influences of language-use and language ideologies of Latina mothers raising their bilingual children. Qualitative data analysis of mother interviews revealed important commonalities and differences in bilingual parenting experiences and language choice. The results demonstrate the influence of communicating with older generations and the language ideology of the nuclear family based on past language experiences, and immigration experiences on language preference and choice. In the two parent/family cases studied, both of these factors created a positive view of bilingualism in the mothers with hopes for their children's dual-language maintenance in the long run. They also illustrated challenges faced by parents regarding language choice.

Authors

• Richard P. Duran, University of California - Santa Barbara

• Heather Christina Macias, University of California - Santa Barbara