Abstract
The heated debate regarding bilingual cognitive advantages remains ongoing. While there are many studies supporting positive cognitive effects of bilingualism, recent meta-analyses have concluded that there is no consistent evidence for a bilingual advantage. In this article we focus on several theoretical concerns. First, we discuss changes in theoretical frameworks, which have led to the development of insufficiently clear theories and hypotheses that are difficult to falsify. Next, we discuss the development of looking at bilingual experiences and the need to better understand language control. Last, we argue that the move from behavioural studies to a focus on brain plasticity is not going to solve the debate on cognitive effects, especially not when brain changes are interpreted in the absence of behavioural differences. Clearer theories on both behavioural and neural effects of bilingualism are needed. However, to achieve this, a solid understanding of both bilingualism and executive functions is needed first.
Highlights
Speaking more than one language is advantageous in this multilingual and highly interconnected world
We argue that the move from behavioural studies to a focus on brain plasticity is not going to solve the debate on cognitive effects, especially not when brain changes are interpreted in the absence of behavioural differences
Cognitive benefits of bilingualism have been linked to delays in the onset of diseases such as dementia and to less decline associated with healthy aging, with possible implications for public health (Bialystok et al, 2016; Perani et al, 2017)
Summary
Speaking more than one language is advantageous in this multilingual and highly interconnected world. Multilinguals can communicate directly with speakers of other languages and have access to other cultures, among other benefits Apart from these communication advantages, bilingualism has been claimed to improve other cognitive domains, in particular executive functioning (e.g., Bialystok et al, 2004). Cognitive benefits of bilingualism have been linked to delays in the onset of diseases such as dementia and to less decline associated with healthy aging, with possible implications for public health (Bialystok et al, 2016; Perani et al, 2017).
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