Translational Approaches to Bilingualism and Multilingualism Research

Bilingualism and multilingualism provide a unique lens for exploring how human experiences influence language and cognition. This editorial presents a collection of studies on the relationship between bilingualism/multilingualism and cognition in typically developing and neurodiverse populations. The articles assembled in this issue synthesize findings from diverse linguistic populations (e.g., second-language learners, heritage speakers, different-script bilinguals, etc.) and techniques (e.g., behavioral, magnetic resonance imaging, electroencephalography, eye-tracking, etc.) to provide compelling evidence that knowing more than one language can benefit learning, health, and social outcomes. Translational research on bilingualism and multilingualism is necessary for informing policy and can serve as a guide to researchers, practitioners, and educators who work with linguistically diverse populations, as well as individuals and parents who speak multiple languages. We conclude that multilingualism shapes cells, selves, and societies.