Accommodating unique language behaviours

7.18 Language behaviours unique to the bi/multilingual person with aphasia such as translation, language mixing and code-switching should be considered in both assessment and intervention planning.

Reference: Ansaldo et al., 2010: Case study

NHMRC level of Evidence: IV

Rationale: Aphasia may result in disturbances to bi/multilingual behaviours such as translation, language mixing and/or code-switching (Ansaldo et al., 2010). Language switching and code-switching do not necessarily need to be avoided, especially if these behaviours existed premorbidly, help the client maximise communication, and they occur in an appropriate context. However, where these behaviours occur inappropriately and/or unintentionally, they may be a suitable target for treatment ,and may be shaped using translation-based approaches to switch back to the intended language (Ansaldo et al., 2010). Discussion with the client and their family, friends and carers may assist in identifying the client’s premorbid use of these behaviours, and their (in)appropriate use in different contexts.

  References:

1. Ansaldo, A. I., Saidi, L. G., & Ruiz, A. (2010). Model‐driven intervention in bilingual aphasia: Evidence from a case of pathological language mixing. Aphasiology, 24(2), 309-324. doi: 10.1080/02687030902958423