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The cognitive neuroscience of signed language
J Rönnberg1, B Söderfeldt, J Risberg
1Department of Behavioral Sciences, Linköping University, Swedish Institute for Disability Research, Linköping and Orebro Universities, Sweden.
Acta Psychologica
|February 24, 2001
Summary
Cognitive neuroscience reveals the left hemisphere is dominant for signed language, similar to spoken language. Early sign language acquisition may enhance cognitive functions and working memory.
Area of Science:
- Cognitive Neuroscience
- Linguistics
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- The cognitive neuroscience of signed language is an emerging field.
- Understanding brain lateralization for signed language is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the current state of knowledge on the cognitive neuroscience of signed language.
- To review lesion and imaging data on signed language processing.
Main Methods:
- Review of lesion studies in aphasic individuals.
- Analysis of neuroimaging data (e.g., fMRI, PET).
- Examination of behavioral data on working memory and sign processing.
Main Results:
- Left hemisphere dominance for signed language perception and production, akin to spoken language.
- Neuropsychological dissociations between linguistic and visuospatial/motor functions.
- Evidence for right hemisphere involvement in specific aspects of signed language processing.
- Early signed language acquisition may lead to compensatory cognitive enhancements.
- Working memory studies show phonological loop effects analogous to spoken language.
Conclusions:
- Signed language processing relies heavily on the left hemisphere, similar to spoken language.
- The right hemisphere plays a role in signed language, with ongoing research into its specific functions.
- Early acquisition of signed language may interact with cognitive development and function.
- Further neuroimaging studies are needed to explore shared mechanisms between signed and spoken language processing in working memory.