Multilingual language experiences and the relationship between ADHD and language performance in EFL

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is related to interactional competence with pragmatic challenges such as frequent excessive talking, difficulty waiting for one’s turn, frequent interruption of others, and seeming not to listen when being talked to directly.

There is a lack of studies investigating the relationship between ADHD and the conversational competence of language learners. Tanja investigates the relationship between multilingual language experiences, ADHD severity as assessed by teachers using the Vanderbilt assessment scale, and speech performance scores using Bishop & Baird’s communication checklist (CC) and English marks.

Tanja will suggest that ADHD is a significant factor influencing language performance as well as communication abilities of EFL learners. However, the multilingual background does not seem to significantly mask the relationship between ADHD scores and English marks.

This online event will be particularly useful for those interested in psychology, and attention deficit disorders.

Multilingualism and Diversity: Impact on Education, Health and Society seminar series

This seminar series aims to bridge science with practice in education. Leading experts in linguistics, psychological sciences and neurosciences will engage with education practitioners, parents, students and members of the public who have an interest in multicultural diversity and inclusion. 

Related links

• Multilanguage and Cognition Lab
• Department of Psychology and Human Development

Image

Josh Applegate via Unsplash.