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In the complex web of networks that is human cognition, language takes up a fundamental and central role, connecting together the notions of thought, perception and identity. In a way, our whole existence relies on the usage of language, it enables communication, self-expression and identity formation, culture development and transference…essentially, it is the glue that holds our lives together.
At the intersection of language and psychology lies a fascinating phenomenon: bilingualism. The general definition captures this concept as the ability to speak and use two languages fluently, and it can arise in various ways, such as through upbringing in a bilingual environment, formal language education, or immersion in a second language later in life. But, essentially, this phenomenon encapsulates much more than we could possibly imagine, all the way from the cognitive and emotional dimensions, to the socio-cultural ones.
When talking about language, it is inevitable that we mention the concept of neuroplasticity which is the brain’s ability to reorganize and adapt itself by creating new neural connections, which later on greatly impacts learning and memory processes, as well as adaptation through changes in life. In this sense, neuroplasticity is a crucial feature of the brain, which has been shown to be improved by certain activities that promote cognitive benefits and improvements in brain function. Of the many aspects that explain the neuroplastic characteristics of the brain, experience has been investigated as an important source of brain structure changes, and we can observe this by all the evidence which shows how specific experiences have a greater impact on cognitive development, especially if they have occurred in the formative years of an individual. Experience and language have a bi-directional relationship of influence, in which experience greatly shapes language acquisition, comprehension and usage, whereas, language impacts how individuals interpret their experiences, and through this we can better understand the central role that language has in cognitive development.
Cognitive Advantages
The research investigating bilingualism and its effects on cognitive functioning has shown that bilingual individuals are constantly engaged in task-switching, inhibition and heightened attentional control, in comparison to monolingual individuals, and these trained characteristics are further transferred to their everyday tasks, which directly point to important advantages in cognitive functioning.
Another important benefit from the acquisition of another language is a delay in cognitive decline, which can contribute greatly to an improved quality of life in older individuals. Many studies shed light upon the link between bilingualism and the concept of cognitive reserve, which is the brain’s ability to cope and adapt to neurological damage and age-related changes. Evidence shows that the mental exercise required to maintain your knowledge and fluency in two languages is directly related to higher levels of cognitive reserve, which further on poses as a “wall of protection” against neurodegenerative diseases.
Cultural enrichment
Bilingualism offers benefits way beyond the expected, it represents a gateway to diverse cultures and perspectives. Individuals who are proficient in another language, apart from their native, have the unique opportunity to gain access to the inner workings of various cultures, traditions, and customs. At the heart of bilingualism, beyond the simple mastering of languages, lies a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and empathy, which allows individuals to appreciate the richness of global heritage.
The other side of the coin, provides a way for bilingual speakers to strengthen their identity, since when you have been immersed in a different culture through their language and traditions, you gain a deeper sense of belonging and connection to your own roots, and through that you do not only preserve the cultural heritage but also actively contribute to its enrichment and evolution over time, ensuring its relevance in an ever-changing world.
Ultimately, bilingualism is not only an important cognitive enhancer, but also a protective factor for cognitive resilience. It poses as a powerful force for cultural unity and intercultural understanding, as well as the awareness and celebration of diverse cultural perspectives and identities.
By Zoi Pavlovska
Bibliography
“Bilingualism: A Cognitive and Neural View of Dual Language Experience. “ by Judith F. Kroll and Guadalupe A. Mendoza
“The Bilingual Adaptation: How Minds Accommodate Experience” by Ellen Biyalstok
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5324728
Bilingualism: The good, the bad, and the indifferent. Bilingualism: Language and Cognition, 12(1), 3-11. Bialystok, E. (2009).
https://www.academia.edu/28931616/Bilingualism_The_good_the_bad_and_the_indifferent
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.02122/full
A.P.E. 
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