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Article published In: Spanish in Context
Vol. 20:1 (2023) ► pp.96–129

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Perceptions of inclusive language in the Spanish of the Southeast

Data from a large classroom project

 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
 | North Carolina State University
Published online: 13 June 2023
DOI logo with link
https://doi.org/10.1075/sic.00084.mic
Abstract
This study examines the perceptions of inclusive language among first- and second-generation Spanish speakers residing in North Carolina, USA, based on survey data collected from 337 speakers by undergraduates. The survey examines familiarity with innovative inclusive language forms (including -@, -x, and -e), as well as opinions about different forms (including standard morphology forms such as masculine default and noun doubling – i.e., chicos y chicas), and reported use of inclusive forms. A majority of participants expressed negative opinions of innovative forms, and very few reported actually using them in their speech. Acceptance varied based not only on participant social characteristics, but also on the morphology and the context in which the form is used. Exceptions to these trends, as well as the possible future development of inclusive language forms, receive additional attention. Research methodologies with undergraduates are also discussed.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Previous research
  • 3.Methodology
    • 3.1Questionnaire
    • 3.2Procedures and participants
    • 3.3Statistical analysis
  • 4.Results
    • 4.1Familiarity with inclusive language
    • 4.2Opinions of inclusive language
    • 4.3Reported use of inclusive language
    • 4.4Respondent comments
  • 5.Discussion and conclusions
  • Notes
  • References
References (41)
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