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Module 4 L7: Benefits of Bilingualism and Cognitive Development

Apr 9, 2025

Commentary: The benefits of bilingualism go beyond knowing two languages

Introduction

  • Bilingualism extends beyond just knowing two languages; it enhances mental functions and social interactions.
  • The discussion is timely with International Mother Tongue Day on February 21.

Mental Development

  • Bilingualism improves mental development from infancy to old age.
  • Key Benefits Include:
    • Better Focus and Creativity:
      • Bilingual individuals have better concentration and can shift focus more effectively.
      • Leads to enhanced mental flexibility and creativity.
      • Bilingual children often outperform monolingual peers in problem-solving and adapting to new situations.
    • Easier Language Acquisition:
      • Bilinguals learn additional languages more easily.
      • Even infants show a heightened ability to learn foreign words compared to monolinguals.

Cognitive Benefits in Aging

  • Bilingualism contributes to healthier mental aging.
  • It may delay memory loss and other symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Social Benefits

  • Enhances social bonding and reduces biases.
  • Bilingual children are more adept at understanding different perspectives.
  • Studies show bilingual children have fewer racial biases and build diverse social connections.

Executive System and Mental Flexibility

  • Bilingualism engages the brain’s executive system, enhancing cognitive flexibility.
  • The constant switching between languages strengthens this system, likened to the brain’s CEO.

Conclusion

  • Bilingualism presents challenges but offers significant cognitive and social rewards.
  • Infants are naturally equipped to learn multiple languages, benefiting from a bilingual environment.

Background

  • Author: Leher Singh, Director at the National University of Singapore’s Infant and Child Language Centre and Associate Professor of Psychology.
  • Source: Channel News Asia
  • Published: February 25, 2018

Additional Resources

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