Speaking and understanding multiple languages is a fantastic asset, as it offers a distinct advantage in a world where nearly everyone is connected by the modern digital age. Additionally, learned cognitive skills are improved when a person learns multiple languages and these skills are transferable to countless areas of life and professional development. This article aims to help you understand the cognitive benefits of being multilingual so that you can better appreciate and enjoy the many wonderful languages our world has to offer.
Understanding Multilingualism
Multilingualism refers to the ability to speak and understand multiple languages. It is the norm in many countries, and it is becoming common among young people in countries like America as well. In fact, a recent study showed that around 20% of American households speak a language other than English at home. Multilingualism comes with many obvious benefits, such as being able to communicate and engage in other countries and cultures. However, there are also many lesser-known cognitive benefits of being multilingual.
Enhanced Cognitive Skills
Studies have consistently shown that being multilingual has a great many cognitive benefits. One of the most significant of these benefits is improved problem-solving ability. In a study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology, researchers found that multilingual individuals are much better at making effective decisions than their monolingual counterparts. Moreover, these individuals learn information faster and retain it for longer. In a similar vein, researchers from the University of Zurich found that multilinguals also have better memory and recall abilities, as a result of being regularly required to switch between languages.
Learning a new language also involves a variety of cognitive tasks that can improve overall cognitive performance, such as memory and attention. These tasks are transferable to other areas of life and professional development. For example, a multilingual individual is likely to be highly skilled at managing time well and prioritizing tasks. They also tend to be more adept at adapting to new situations and dealing with change.
Better Non-verbal Communication Skills
Being multilingual makes people better at reading body language and understanding non-verbal communication. This is simply the result of many cultures having different nuances, signals and customs. According to a study conducted by the University of Edinburgh, multilinguals are much more proficient at understanding and interpreting the subtleties of non-verbal communication than monolingual individuals. This can be an invaluable asset when it comes to communicating with people from different parts of the world.
Reduced Age-Related Cognitive Decline
Another surprising cognitive benefit of being multilingual is that it can help reduce age-related cognitive decline. The University of California released a study in 2013 which found that individuals who were multilingual were far less likely to suffer from dementia and related conditions in their later years than those who spoke only one language. This is due to the brain’s increased ability to develop new neural pathways and compensate for cognitive deficits when faced with an increased cognitive demand.
The Importance of Being Multilingual
Ultimately, being multilingual can be an incredible asset. Not only does it enable us to better communicate with other people, but it also provides a whole host of cognitive benefits. A multilingual individual learns more easily and has better recall than their monolingual peers. They are also better at non-verbal communication and are much less likely to suffer from age-related cognitive decline. Therefore, it is crucial to recognize the incredible benefits of being multilingual and take full advantage of them.