Is language changing your personality?
Can language alter your personality? In this study by Ramírez-Esparza et al. results suggest that switching between language in Spanish and English bilinguals also changes personality traits. Do bilinguals have two personalities? A special case of cultural frame switching Nairán Ramírez-Esparza et al. Journal of Research in PersonalityVolume 40, Issue 2 , April 2006, Pages […]
Can language alter your personality? In this study by Ramírez-Esparza et al. results suggest that switching between language in Spanish and English bilinguals also changes personality traits.
Do bilinguals have two personalities? A special case of cultural frame switching
Nairán Ramírez-Esparza et al.
Journal of Research in Personality
Volume 40, Issue 2 , April 2006, Pages 99-120
Abstract
Four studies examined and empirically documented Cultural Frame Switching (CFS; Hong, Chiu, & Kung, 1997) in the domain of personality. Specifically, we asked whether Spanish–English bilinguals show different personalities when using different languages? If so, are the two personalities consistent with cross-cultural differences in personality? To generate predictions about the specific cultural differences to expect, Study 1 documented personality differences between US and Mexican monolinguals. Studies 2–4 tested CFS in three samples of Spanish–English bilinguals, located in the US and Mexico. Findings replicated across all three studies, suggesting that language activates CFS for Extraversion, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness. Further analyses suggested the findings were not due to anomalous items or translation effects. Results are discussed in terms of the interplay between culture and self.
I’m curious to learn whether other people experience personality changes when they meet with people from other cultures or those that speak with accents. Am I different in my personality when I talk with one friend versus another? How “I” aware can one become?
This might have a lot to do with you. Want to talk about it?