The role of componential analysis, categorical hypothesising, replicability and confirmation bias in testing for bilingual advantages in executive functioning

Abstract

Kroll and Bialystok assert that managing two languages leads to a reorganisation of the neural circuits involved in language and cognitive processing and to bilingual advantages in executive functioning. This commentary documents that bilingual advantages in inhibitory control, switching and monitoring are difficult to replicate. Kroll and Bialystok argue that the use of componential analyses and categorical hypothesising are often responsible for the null results and that these research practices have created a false controversy surrounding the existence of bilingual advantages. An alternative perspective is presented suggesting that the appearance of a steady stream of published reports has been exaggerated because of the frequent use of risky small n's, a confirmation bias to report positive findings and a reluctance to conduct and report exact replications.