The powerful associations formed between an L1 and early memories, sensations and emotions (Harris et al, 2006; Pavlenko, 2012) are often lacking in a foreign language (LX). Even 'balanced' multilinguals tend to report a preference for their first language (L1) when verbalising emotion and for emotional inner speech (Dewaele, 2015). Indeed, emotional expression appears to be a key driver for code-switching in multilinguals (Dewaele, 2013). Empirical research also shows that multilinguals have different physiological responses to emotional stimuli in different languages (Harris et al, 2003). However, the LX detachment effect can also help speakers to regulate uncomfortable emotions (Bond & Lai, 1986). The emotionality of an LX has implications for various domains where accuracy in expression and perception is crucial. These range from romantic relationships (Dewaele & Salomidou, 2017) to health care settings. In particular, emotional detachment of the LX can hinder or facilitate psychotherapeutic work depending on the situation (Buxbaum, 1949; Marcos, 1976; Rolland et al, 2017). The symposium will contrast the advantages (e.g. the disclosure of painful memories or the expression of feelings which are taboo in an L1) and disadvantages (muting the speaker's emotion and hindering authenticity) of the detachment effect in order to appreciate its complexities.
Click here for detailed program
The powerful associations formed between an L1 and early memories, sensations and emotions (Harris et al, 2006; Pavlenko, 2012) are often lacking in a foreign language (LX). Even 'balanced' multilinguals tend to report a preference for their first language (L1) when verbalising emotion and for emotional inner speech (Dewaele, 2015). Indeed, emotional expression appears to be a key driver for code-switching in multilinguals (Dewaele, 2013). Empirical research also shows that multilinguals have different physiological responses to emotional stimuli in different languages (Harris et al, 2003). However, the LX detachment effect can also help speakers to regulate uncomfortable emotions (Bond & Lai, 1986). The emotionality of an LX has implications for various domains where accuracy in expression and perception is crucial. These range from romantic relationships (Dewaele & Salomidou, 2017) to health care settings. In particular, emotional detachment of the LX can hinder or facilitate psychotherapeutic work depending on the situation (Buxbaum, 1949; Marcos, 1976; Rolland et al, 2017). The symposium will contrast the advantages (e.g. the disclosure of painful memories or the expression of feelings which are taboo in an L1) and disadvantages (muting the speaker's emotion and hindering authenticity) of the detachment effect in order to appreciate its complexities.
Click here for detailed program
Room 1 AILA 2021 aila2021@gcb.nl
Catherine Catherine Caldwell-Harris
Pernelle Lorette
Svitlana KLÖTZL
Sally Rachel Cook
Louise Rolland
Alex Panicacci
Brittany Blankinship
Norbert Vanek
Li Zhou
Jean-Marc DewaeleTechnical Issues?
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