SIL International Publications

Language maintenance among the Parya of Tajikistan

Relation Text: 
SIL Electronic Survey Reports 2010-014
Statement of Responsibility: 
Abbess, Elisabeth, Katja Müller, Daniel Paul, Calvin Tiessen and Gabriela Tiessen; John M. Clifton, editor
Issue Date: 
2010
Abstract: 

This paper presents the results of sociolinguistic research conducted between October 2003 and May 2004 among the Parya people living in western Tajikistan. The primary goals of the research were to document and suggest reasons for the observed ethnolinguistic vitality of the language. Results were centered around four areas of research: language use, second language proficiency in Tajik or Uzbek, social networks, and ethnic identity. Of particular interest is the claim that language maintenance is achieved by dense, multiplex and territorially-based social networks, despite high bilingual proficiency and other pressures leading towards language shift. Data were gathered through a set of three questionnaires, including a social networks questionnaire and an ethnic identity questionnaire, and direct observation.

Extent: 
32 pages
Subject: 
Survey Report
Language Vitality
Language Surveys
Country: 
Tajikistan
Subject Languages: 
Content Language: 
Nature of Work: 
Domain SubType: