Second Language Neurocognition and First Language Attrition

Abstract

First language attrition research has long attempted to carve its own distinct niche, clearly separate from, for instance, second language development. However, neurocognitive perspectives on attrition necessitate a more holistic approach, where attrition is embedded in a larger framework of multilingual processing. The main question to ask, then, is how the unique interaction between an L1 and L2 in attrition contexts shapes bilingual processing theories. Attrition then necessarily also comprises changes to L1 access and mastery that result from L2 development while still residing in an L1 dominant setting. This chapter explores current knowledge about the neurocognitive underpinnings of attrition, and provides a roadmap for future studies.