The impact of inter-ethnic marriages on language maintenance
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Background of the study
Inter-ethnic marriages in Nigeria have become increasingly common in an era of globalization and urban migration. Such unions often bring together speakers of different native languages, creating unique linguistic dynamics within households. While inter-ethnic marriages can foster multicultural understanding, they may also lead to shifts in language practices and influence language maintenance among offspring (Okoro, 2023). Families may adopt a dominant language for practical communication, sometimes at the expense of indigenous languages spoken by one or both partners. Over time, this can result in reduced transmission of minority languages to younger generations and contribute to language attrition. The study examines how inter-ethnic marriages affect language choices, the intergenerational transfer of linguistic heritage, and the broader implications for cultural identity. It also considers the role of education, community values, and governmental policies in mediating these effects (Chinwe, 2024). The findings aim to provide a nuanced understanding of how mixed-ethnic households negotiate language use in diverse sociocultural contexts (Adeniyi, 2025).
Statement of the problem
Inter-ethnic marriages have introduced complex language dynamics that can lead to the gradual erosion of minority languages. In many cases, a dominant language is adopted for household communication, reducing the frequency and quality of indigenous language use (Babatunde, 2024). This shift poses a threat to the maintenance and transmission of minority languages and can result in cultural dilution. The lack of supportive policies to encourage multilingualism in mixed-ethnic families further exacerbates the problem. This study seeks to investigate the extent to which inter-ethnic marriages influence language maintenance and to identify factors that either support or hinder the preservation of indigenous linguistic practices.
Objectives of the study:
- To assess the impact of inter-ethnic marriages on household language practices.
- To identify factors influencing language choice in mixed-ethnic families.
- To propose strategies for promoting bilingual or multilingual language maintenance.
Research questions:
- How do inter-ethnic marriages affect language use within households?
- What factors influence language choice among children in mixed-ethnic families?
- What strategies can promote the maintenance of indigenous languages in these contexts?
Research hypotheses:
- Inter-ethnic marriages lead to a significant decline in indigenous language use.
- The adoption of a dominant language in mixed households negatively affects minority language transmission.
- Educational interventions can foster multilingual proficiency in inter-ethnic families.
Significance of the study (100 words):
This study is significant as it explores the impact of inter-ethnic marriages on language maintenance, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for preserving indigenous languages in mixed-cultural households. The findings will inform policymakers, educators, and community organizations on strategies to promote multilingualism and safeguard cultural heritage (Eke, 2023).
Scope and limitations of the study:
This study is limited to examining the impact of inter-ethnic marriages on language maintenance, focusing on household language practices and intergenerational transmission.
Definitions of terms:
- Inter-ethnic Marriages: Marriages between individuals from different ethnic groups.
- Language Maintenance: Efforts to preserve and transmit a language across generations.
- Multilingualism: The use of multiple languages within a single community or individual.
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