Generational Perspectives on Language  Attitudes and Linguistic Identity in a  Multilingual Community: The Case of Orange Walk, Northern Belize

Belize is characterised by extensive multilingualism, with over ten languages spoken nationally; this study centres on Spanish, English, and Belizean Kriol. While previous research has recognised multilingual practices as central to Belizean language use, the intergenerational dynamics between language attitudes and linguistic identity remain insufficiently examined. This study explores how language attitudes and practices inform generational perceptions of linguistic identity in Orange Walk, Northern Belize. Forty-eight participants, aged 18 to 65, engaged in paired, recorded discussions addressing their language practices, identity, perceptions of language prestige, and generational similarities and differences. Additionally, they completed a linguistic portrait, which was discussed in the recordings. Finally, participants completed a demographic questionnaire to provide contextual information about their age, background, and language use. The findings indicate that...Show moreBelize is characterised by extensive multilingualism, with over ten languages spoken nationally; this study centres on Spanish, English, and Belizean Kriol. While previous research has recognised multilingual practices as central to Belizean language use, the intergenerational dynamics between language attitudes and linguistic identity remain insufficiently examined. This study explores how language attitudes and practices inform generational perceptions of linguistic identity in Orange Walk, Northern Belize. Forty-eight participants, aged 18 to 65, engaged in paired, recorded discussions addressing their language practices, identity, perceptions of language prestige, and generational similarities and differences. Additionally, they completed a linguistic portrait, which was discussed in the recordings. Finally, participants completed a demographic questionnaire to provide contextual information about their age, background, and language use. The findings indicate that multilingualism is normative in Orange Walk, yet remains contingent on context, interlocutor, and age. Moreover, the relationship between language and identity emerges as highly personal, multifaceted, and dynamic. These results offer valuable insights for future research on the interplay of language and identity in multilingual communities, with particular relevance for multilingual identity theory and sociolinguistic studies in comparable settings.Show less

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Generational Perspectives on Language Attitudes and Linguistic Identity in a Multilingual Community: The Case of Orange Walk, Northern Belize