Language has always been a fascinating field of study. Being one of the defining features of our species, the study of language is more or less an exploration of humanity. One of the most controversial aspects of linguistics, some decades ago was bilingualism and how it affects our brain. The studies are still on the go, but it is no more controversy.
The majority of people speak more than one language. As the world became more advanced and people started to dissolve as one, the concept of multilingualism became more prominent. Most probably, you are a bilingual too (yes, you!). So, how does bilingualism benefit us?
In the initial stage of linguistics, researchers were of the opinion that forcing down a second language on a child might interfere with development and might lead to complications in brain chemistry. This might sound ridiculous now. But, at the time it was taken too seriously, so much so that parents went to extreme ends just to make sure that their kids never heard a word from another language. Obviously, as more empirical researches and experiments emerged, this notion was erased into oblivion.
There are three broad categories of bilingualism. Suppose 3-year-old George and 13 years old Jack moved in from Germany to America with their parents. Here, George is a compound bilingual, as he learns both English and German simultaneously. Jack, on the other hand, is a coordinate bilingual, which means he separates the two languages. For example, he talks in English at school but still uses German when at home or with his friends. The third type is the subordinate bilingualism. George’s and jack’s parents belong to this category. They learn to use the language later in their life for a specific purpose. All three types of bilinguists can achieve maximum proficiency.
Well now, how does it benefit us to learn a second language? There has been extensive research in the area and still, we are listing down more benefits. There can actually be physical effects on a bilingual brain; the grey matter grows thicker and hence denser. Neurolinguists, with the help of brain imaging techniques, have also confirmed that certain brain areas become more active when we use different languages. Specifically, bilingualism triggers heightened activity in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of the brain which is responsible for executive functions. Bilingualism also seems to enhance certain cognitive functions. Using different languages is like a massive exercise for our brain. And this rigorous exercise, some studies show, can delay neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's for as much as 5 years.
It may not be right to proclaim that bilinguists are smarter. But it is true that a bilingual brain is more healthy and active. So, do your brain a favour and pick that Spanish classic the next time you are in a library.
