Coping with a language loss: A case of linguistic and cultural re-encoding of memories in language attriters

This study investigates the effects of language loss on bilingual autobiographical memory. More specifically, the study focuses on whether severe language loss would lead to any linguistic changes and/or interfere with how memories are recalled and shared. Autobiographical memories were elicited with the help of a cued-recall technique and memory questionnaire from two groups of immigrants—attriters (who experienced significant language loss) and bilinguals (who retained their first language proficiency). The data set consisted of pre-immigration memories that were originally encoded in the first language, Russian. The frequency of recall (i.e., sharing memories with others as well as reminiscing) and linguistic components (i.e., words) of memories elicited from the attriters and bilinguals were analyzed quantitatively and qualitatively. Overall, attriters were able to recall memories that were originally encoded in the forgotten language. They also reported reminiscing about their pre-immigration memories and sharing their memories with others. However, attriters revealed that the pre-immigration memories came to them with words in the second language, English, which was not the case with bilinguals. Attriters also reframed memories for several Russian culture-specific items and events. This finding is indicative of memory re-encoding—a phenomenon when memories are updated, stored, and subsequently retrieved with added information. While this finding points to the bilingual mind’s ability to adapt to language loss, it may also suggest linguistic and cultural assimilation under the influence of the new language and culture. This is the first investigation of autobiographical memory in bilinguals with severe language loss that highlights the malleability and adaptability of the bilingual mind as well as the importance of language maintenance.