Effects of the Language with (dialects or varieties due particular area and situation) Problems and Barriers (Bilingualism)

Musleh Saadi
Aug 13
16 min read

Updated: Aug 14

The format of the research will contain at least these elements:

1. Title page

2. Introduction/ Research Problem, Objectives, Research Questions

3. Literature view (after this mention 10 different researcher’s research analysis in paragraphs shape

Introduction

Language is a dynamic and I think very important aspect of human communication that varies across regions, situations, and contexts, after (given) the rise of new dialects and varieties. These linguistic unique type of aspects play a crucial role in shaping multiple identities according to different cultures, regions, (Situations, and contexts) and most importantly public & and social interaction (because people use unique language, and simply express their thoughts in specific words, (in the way of particular dialects, varieties and accents due to particular situation & context on the daily’s basis and needs as well). Moreover, the existence and presence of various dialects and language varieties can also lead & to and explore multiple language-related problems and barriers, impacting communication and understanding. Through this research aims to convert into the effects of language with a focus on dialects or varieties according to particular areas and situations. By examining the existing literature (their particular work due to step by step) on this particular topic & and subject, I will try to fulfill my mission to describe the different complexities (Problems and barriers) surrounding linguistic diversity and its implications on interpersonal, intrapersonal, and social communication (around the specific society). I will define my research objectives, and then try to elaborate on different researchers’, research analysis on this following topic with details and relevant examples at the Next Part.

Research Problem

I think, the nuanced existence of language dialects or varieties within specific geographic areas and situational contexts, raises crucial questions again and again related to the individual role in effective communication.

Ø Language barriers due to particular and geographical area

Ø Thought expression in unique words (due to a particular language, particular context, situation, area, varieties, dialects, and accents) related problems

Ø Code-switching and Code mixing in 1^st to 2^nd Language (due to daily basis needs and social communication).

Ø One word of 1^st language converts into another language using that word in the wrong pronunciation and also using that word (in the wrong way) as part of 2^nd language (fixation).

Ø Some languages through daily basis, words, documents(used for effective communication in multiple areas of the country with different dialects, varieties, and accents due to particular situations and culture, study at inter-level, study at M.A level in some universities, use this language as poetry and also use in books writing) use as a language but some people said, this language’s most of the words, dialects and varieties borrow from the other language, So it is dialect instead of language. (How that is possible?)

Research Objectives

§ Investigate the role of language dialects and varieties in shaping communication dynamics across diverse settings.

§ Identify the problems and barriers related to linguistic variations in interpersonal, intra-personal, effective, and professional communication.

§ Explore the impact of sociocultural factors on the perception and understanding of language varieties and dialects.

§ Propose strategies for fostering effective communication in Bilingual, multilingual, and multicultural environments.

§ Explore Regional Linguistic Variation: Analyze the linguistic patterns that emerge in different geographic regions, considering the historical and cultural factors that influence the development of unique dialects.

§ Evaluate Gendered Linguistic Practices: Investigate how gender intersects with language varieties, exploring the distinct communication patterns that emerge based on societal expectations and norms.

§ Assess the Role of Technology: Examine the influence of digital communication platforms on the spread and evolution of language varieties, considering the implications of globalization on linguistic diversity.

§ Understand Communicative Competence: Explore the challenges individuals face in multicultural settings due to differences in linguistic varieties, aiming to identify strategies for enhancing communicative competence.

§ Try to solve the problems in communication due to a particular context: Explore & and describe the challenges and problems according to the use of language (express people’s thoughts due to different contexts, situation, and area (with the rise of new further language varieties, accents and dialects) according to a particular geographical area.

§ Saraiki is a Language: I will try to prove that Saraiki is a language because Saraiki uses on a language on daily basis, words, and documents(used for effective communication in multiple areas of the country with different dialects, varieties, and accents due to particular situations and culture, study at inter-level, study at M.A level in (BZU Multan, IUB Bahawalpur) some universities, use this language as poetry (Saraiki poetry of Hazrat Khawaja gulam Fareed (R.A) and famous poet of our country (Shakir Shuja abadi) and also use in books writing) use as language. However, UNO (Human writes declared for Saraiki as a Language).

Research Questions

· Native Language don’t know and able to speak other language

· Why does a single person speak multiple languages in the same place with different language speakers?

· How the Language affects our society and our daily life?

· When a speaker speaks a particular language what’s a problem he/she faces during the use of language?

· Importance of dialects, varieties with specific languages due to the particular area and situation.

· Language Barrier

· How do language variations, including dialects and varieties influenced by specific geographical areas and social situations, contribute to communication challenges?

· what are the associated problems and barriers in linguistic interactions?

· How the language affect on child’s peer interaction in early childhood (and according to particular area, context, and situation during the stage of language development/learning daily needs related to effective communication)?

Literature view

Language, as a fundamental aspect of human interaction, exhibits rich diversity through dialects and varieties shaped by geographical, cultural, and situational influences. Through this literature view, I will try to explore the multifaceted effects of linguistic diversity on communication and also try to shed light on the inherent problems and barriers that arise across diverse areas and situations. In addition, variations due to geographical factors are exemplified by the distinct dialects and varieties that exist in various regions and multiple geographical areas. For example, in the (United States, the differences between Southern and Northern English are well-documented).

However, many scholars have explored the intricate relationship between language, dialects, and societal dynamics. I will mention various researchers’, research analysis related to our following topic (or my topic related to multiple sub-topics) at the upcoming part:

1. Labov's Variationist Sociolinguistics

William Labov, he has significantly shaped in the field of sociolinguistics with his (pioneering work) on linguistic variation. Labov's Variationist Sociolinguistics was introduced in the mid-20th century, Furthermore, Labov's research extended (due to time by time) into urban linguistic landscapes, particularly in New York City, where he was most importantly examined linguistic stratification across different neighborhoods. His study described that linguistic variations were not only indicative or dedictive of individual identity, Labov's approach to linguistic variation, emphasizing the quantitative or qualitative data analysis of language, set the stage for a methodological shift in sociolinguistics, his sociolinguistic interview technique(which involved eliciting speech samples in various controlled contexts and situation. Labov's work also contributed to the understanding of linguistic change over time. Simply, Labov's Variationist Sociolinguistics has left an indelible mark on the study of linguistic variation, his meticulous approach, emphasis on quantitative analysis,

also, exploration of the social factors shaping language use has influenced generations of researchers (his specific research in New York City, notably the study of 'r' pronunciation, revealed how social factors),.

2. Trudgill's Sociolinguistic Patterns

Peter Trudgill, by examining the complex interaction between language and social structure, has made important contributions to the discipline. This study's finding of distinctive linguistic traits connected to various social classes was one of its major accomplishments. P Trudgill noted that speakers from lower social groups exhibited language traits deemed non-standard, while speakers from higher social classes tended to express linguistic forms associated with prestige. In some way, P Trudgill's methodology includes doing systematic observations and interviews to gather linguistic data, much like Labov's (Sociolinguistic variants) work.

Moreover, P Trudgill introduced the concept of overt prestige and also covert prestige, In addition, he emphasized that speakers may align themselves with certain linguistic features consciously or unconsciously based on their social identity and aspirations (Trudgill, 1974). However, the exploration of linguistic variation across social classes, genders, societies, and communities has paved the way for a more nuanced understanding of how language reflects and perpetuates social structures.

3. Chambers' Dialect Acquisition

Dialect acquisition offers a unique viewpoint on how people learn and adjust to linguistic diversity. Language acquisition is a complex process impacted by a variety of factors. Jack K. Chambers has made a substantial contribution to our understanding of dialect acquisition by illuminating the complex processes via which people pick up and internalise social and regional linguistic variances. ("Dialect Acquisition") (1992), Chambers explains how people pick up and become proficient in a particular dialect, especially children. Unlike older ideas that generally saw dialects as departures from a standard. Furthermore, Chambers offers a more dynamic viewpoint, arguing that dialects are distinct language systems in and of themselves. Chambers highlights the importance of exposure and input in the development of a dialect. He questions the idea that young children pick up language. Furthermore, Chambers explores the impact of sociolinguistic variables on dialect acquisition. He contends that children are sensitive to social meanings associated with linguistic forms and are adept at navigating the sociolinguistic landscape of their community (1992).

4. Wolfram and Schilling-Estes' Appalachian English

Walt Wolfram offers a wealth of context for examining linguistic patterns that show how language, identity, and history interact. Their study attempted to dispel myths and assumptions about Appalachian speech and offer a more complex picture of the region's linguistic variety. Wolfram and Schilling-Estes' analysis of vowel patterns in Appalachian English showed subtle linguistic variances that contradict simple assumptions of dialectal speech. Their approach to research, which was based in variationist sociolinguistics, required carefully examining speech samples from several Appalachian villages. They also showed that the region's linguistic patterns were not uniform and instead displayed subtle differences.

variations influenced by factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic background. They argued that linguistic choices were often markers of local identity and community belonging.

5. Milroy and Milroy's Social Networks

To better comprehend the connection between linguistic variety and social systems, William Milroy has played a crucial role. Their study has made a substantial contribution to our understanding of how social networks affect language change, shape language behavior, and uphold language standards in communities. In Belfast, Northern Ireland, they carried out a thorough investigation that was centered on people's language use in their social networks. Finding strong and weak linkages inside social networks was one of the main conclusions of Milroy and Milroy's research. Weak links denoted more distant connections, and strong ties represented close-knit relationships marked by frequent interaction. The researchers noticed that weak ties, or shaky relationships, are frequently how linguistic innovations spread. Furthermore, Milroy & Milroy’s method places a strong emphasis on the value of unofficial ties within a community and the networks' density in affecting language use and evolution.

6. Eckert's Variation in Adolescents

Renowned sociolinguist Penelope Eckert has made a substantial contribution to this topic by examining the complex relationship between language variety and teenage identity building. Her study converts into the complexities of language use among teenagers, offering insight on the complicated relationship between language, social groupings, and personal identity. Adolescents use language strategically to develop and enact their identities within peer groups, according to Eckert's dynamic viewpoint on language rather than a static reflection of social categories. Eckert's work established the idea of a distinct "style" as a key component in comprehending teenage linguistic variance. She maintained that phonological traits, vocabulary, and discourse patterns are examples of language choices that are essential to the development of stylistic identities.

flexibility, navigating various linguistic styles depending on social context and interactional goals.

7. Kerswill's Urban Dialects

Paul Kerswill, by examining the linguistic variances that arise within the intricate social fabric of metropolitan environments, has made a substantial contribution to the study of urban dialects. His work sheds important light on how language changes in response to the particular social dynamics of metropolitan environments. He stated that in metropolitan centres like London and, etc., persons from many linguistic backgrounds converge and interact, leading to the creation of a new, hybrid urban dialect that contains linguistic traits from various parent dialects. He distinguished characteristics of this emerging urban speech, such as the-fronting and l-vocalization, showing how linguistic convergence reflects the multicultural character of the city.

8. Gumperz's Communicative Competence: Navigating Language Variations in Multicultural Societies

The revolutionary idea of "communicative competence," first proposed by renowned sociolinguist John J. Gumperz in 1982, greatly increased our comprehension of linguistic variances in multicultural contexts. In particular, J. Gumperz's research examined how sociocultural background shapes people's capacity for successful communication in a variety of linguistic contexts. He further maintained that in order to communicate effectively, people must also be sociolinguistically competent, or able to understand and negotiate linguistic differences in a variety of social and cultural contexts. He highlighted the significance of context-specific cues, such as intonation, gestures, eye contact, and contextual information. Gumperz did, however, create the idea of "code-switching and code-mixing," which refers to the skillful transition between several languages or dialects during a single discussion.Moreover, he argued that code-switching is a pragmatic communicative strategy, allowing speakers to convey nuances and cultural affiliations that may not be fully expressible within a single linguistic system.

9. Tannen (1984) explored gender-related language variations

Deborah Tannen, a well-known female sociolinguist, made a substantial contribution to the area of sociolinguistics in 1984 with her groundbreaking research on language variants connected to gender. Tannen's research focuses on the complex ways that language use both reflects and creates gender dynamics. It also emphasizes the diverse range of subtle communication styles that people of different genders utilize. Tannen's research also went beyond the clichés, explaining that these variations are a reflection of different communication styles rather than superiority or inferiority complexes. Additionally, Tannen's study translated into the function of (indirectness, interruptions, and language rituals in gender-related communication, specifically). She emphasized how men may communicate more directly and assertively, whereas women may use more indirect language to soften requests or show courtesy.

10. Cheshire (1982) delved into the concept of "overt prestige" associated with certain language varieties

In a notable female researcher/sociolinguist, Jenny Cheshire's (1982) study titled "Overt and Covert Prestige in the Speech of London Adolescents," she indeed went into the topic of "covert prestige." Furthermore, within particular communities, her idea also alludes to the social prestige and worth attached to nonstandard or stigmatized linguistic variants. In contrast to covert prestige, the word "overt prestige" was also coined to refer to the extra obvious, acknowledged status connected to prestigious or conventional language forms.

Through her own research, she examined the language distinctions between teenagers in London and other British cities, and she discovered that some nonstandard linguistic qualities were highly valued within particular social groups. Despite being stigmatized by the greater community, these nonstandard forms carried a feeling of identity, solidarity, and "covert prestige" among the specific communities. Moreover, this study significantly advanced our understanding of the complex social connections influencing language attitudes and evaluations.

I will try to write and also mention the research Methodology (based on some important steps that we should follow) and questionnaire(based on quantitative and also qualitative data-related questions) of following at the Next part, the topic for which I have already written the introduction, and literature review, with the following assigned instructions by the instructor:

Research Methodology

Introduction

The goal of this research is to examine how linguistic variations and dialects affect communication, with a particular emphasis on the difficulties and obstacles encountered by speakers of various languages and dialects. The purpose of this study is to shed light on how language barriers affect successful communication and what approaches may be used to get around them.

Research Design

The study will use a qualitative methodology to investigate participant experiences and perspectives about language barriers and the difficulties they present.

Participants or Sample

Method

A wide range of participants will be included in the study, including professionals like interpreters, translators, and language educators as well as speakers of various languages and dialects. This will offer a thorough grasp of the impacts of dialects and language variations on communication from multiple angles.

The research methods will include:

1. Interviews: Conduct semi-structured interviews with participants to gather insights on their experiences with language barriers, the challenges they face, and the strategies they use to overcome these barriers.

2. Focus Groups: To encourage the sharing of thoughts and experiences on communication difficulties and linguistic hurdles, arrange focus groups with participants.

Approach

In order to overcome language difficulties between researchers and participants who speak various languages, the study will use a cross-lingual approach, utilising interpreters and translators. This strategy will guarantee that the study process is considerate of the participants' varied linguistic backgrounds and cultures.

Genre

Both primary and secondary data sources will be used in the study, including secondary data from previously published literature on communication difficulties and language obstacles as well as qualitative research techniques like focus groups and interviews.

Data Collection

Data collection will involve:

1. Interviews: Interview participants in a semi-structured manner to learn about their experiences, difficulties, and coping mechanisms with regard to language barriers.

2. Focus Groups: Organize focus group discussions among participants to facilitate the exchange of ideas and experiences related to language barriers and communication challenges. Moreover, we were try to collect data through old research rticle and its related websites which references (in the form of citations I will mention at below) and got the idea from chat gpt then convert those ideas into own wording.

Data Analysis

Data analysis will involve:

1. Thematic Analysis: Examine the information from the focus groups and interviews to find recurrent themes about communication difficulties, language hurdles, and methods for getting around them.

2. Content Analysis: Examine textual sources for patterns and trends pertaining to language barriers and how they affect communication, such as books, articles, and research papers.

Level of Research

The study will investigate how language variations and dialects impact communication in diverse social and cultural contexts, looking at both the macro (national) and micro (individual) levels.

Validity and Reliability

To ensure the validity and reliability of the research, the following measures will be taken at the upcoming part:

1. Member Checking: Share the findings with participants to solicit feedback and ensure that the data accurately reflects their experiences and perspectives. Moreover, I ask the question in questionnaire in the domain of attitudes.

2. Peer Debriefing: Discuss the research process and findings with peers or experts to receive feedback and enhance the credibility of the research.

Authenticity

The research will strive to maintain authenticity by using appropriate research methods, such as interviews and focus groups, to collect data

from participants speaking in their original tongues. The study will also take a cross-linguistic strategy, mediating language barriers between researchers and participants who speak different languages with the help of interpreters and translators.

Form of Literature

Theoretical Framework

The sociolinguistics framework, which emphasises the connection between language use and social issues, will serve as the research's compass. The study will also make use of the idea of language identity and how it manifests itself through code-switching in order to expand on our knowledge of language dynamics in multilingual cultures.

Instrumentation

The development of interview and focus group guides involving language speakers, users, students, and researchers will facilitate the process of gathering data while guaranteeing uniformity and comparability among participants. Furthermore, services for interpretation and translation will be offered as needed to help individuals who speak different languages communicate with researchers.

Findings

Findings are presented with the help of pie charts. We conducted an absolute survey from our research article which is based on (15% quantitative and 7% qualitative data-related questions), The survey was conducted online on a survey website and then we sent this survey to our fellow tribes, people of different tribes and speakers of different languages, to find out from them their point of view. In this survey, these people gave their opinions based on their knowledge, information, agreement, disagreement, and experience. This survey mostly consisted of questions based on the dialects, varieties and accents of the conflicting areas of different languages, its daily effects on people's lives, its importance, difficulties, misunderstandings in using it, etc. For instance, What difficulties, and misunderstandings do people face in using their language and another's language daily? And

People's feelings related to their use, emotions, etc. Many people were positive about it, some were negative and many people had a mixed response. In addition, the findings at below:

Qualitative Research

Introduction

Language is more than a medium of communication—it is a social, cultural, and identity marker. Dialects, regional varieties, and accents often enrich linguistic diversity, but in certain contexts, they can also create communication barriers, social misunderstandings, and identity conflicts. This qualitative research examines the consequences of dialectal and linguistic variation, focusing on their impact on social interaction, identity, and cultural cohesion. The study explores how these variations can both facilitate and hinder communication, depending on the area, social context, and situation.

2. Research Design

The study adopts a multi-method qualitative approach to capture a rich and multidimensional understanding of the topic. Four qualitative methodologies—case study, ethnography, grounded theory, and phenomenology—were applied to collect, analyze, and interpret data.

A. Case Study

The case study examines dialect standardization challenges in the Galician language as a representative example of linguistic variation issues.

Case Selection: Communities in Galicia with distinct regional dialects.
Data Sources: Academic literature such as Measuring Linguistic Distance in Galician Varieties and Álvarez Blanco’s Atlas Lingüístico Galego.
Key Finding: Standardization efforts face resistance due to strong local attachment to regional dialects, illustrating how attempts to unify language can unintentionally marginalize cultural identity.

B. Ethnography

Ethnographic immersion revealed the lived experience of language variation in communities where dialect strongly influences daily interactions.

Method: Participant observation and informal interviews.
Finding: Dialects act as markers of belonging, but also cause in-group exclusivity. For example, in professional settings, speakers of minority dialects often modify their speech to avoid misunderstanding or prejudice, leading to a loss of linguistic authenticity.

C. Grounded Theory

A grounded theory approach was applied to build an explanatory framework for how dialectal differences affect communication and identity.

Data Collection:
- Questionnaires (3 weeks prior) collected experiences from multilingual and multidialectal speakers.
- Example Response: A business meeting with participants from different regions failed to progress smoothly due to varying accents and local idioms, requiring repeated clarifications.
Emergent Theory: Communication barriers from dialects are not solely due to linguistic distance, but also social attitudes, perceived prestige of the variety, and the willingness of speakers to adapt.

D. Phenomenology

The phenomenological lens focused on subjective experiences of speakers encountering dialect barriers.

Finding:
- Dialects are tied deeply to personal and group identity, influencing how individuals perceive themselves and others.
- Regional variants of languages, such as Southern vs. Northern American English or urban vs. rural Punjabi, often carry social class connotations.
- These associations can cause prejudice, exclusion, and misunderstandings even among speakers of the same language.

3. Data Collection Methods

In-Depth Interviews: Captured personal accounts of communication challenges due to dialects and varieties.
Questionnaires: Explored attitudes toward language borrowing, corrupted word forms, and regional expressions.
Focus Group Discussions: Gathered collective insights from classmates, researchers, and professionals already working in language-related fields.

4. Data Analysis

Data were analyzed using thematic coding to identify recurring barriers and social impacts:

Barriers Identified:
1. Misinterpretation of idiomatic expressions.
2. Difficulty understanding unfamiliar accents.
3. Perceived inferiority or superiority of certain dialects.
4. Resistance to linguistic standardization.
Social Impacts:
- Marginalization of minority dialect speakers.
- Pressure to assimilate into standard language norms.
- Loss of cultural heritage when dialects are abandoned.

5. Conclusion

This qualitative study reveals that while linguistic diversity enriches cultural heritage, it also introduces challenges in communication, social integration, and professional collaboration. Dialects and varieties function as both bridges and barriers—strengthening cultural identity on one hand, while potentially limiting social mobility and mutual understanding on the other. Effective strategies for managing these challenges require culturally sensitive communication policies, inclusive education, and the recognition of linguistic diversity as an asset rather than a deficit.