Pragmatics: Exploring language use by younger generations in Pedi families
Mamaila J Mogolane1, Joanne Neille, Jenna Sher
1Department of Speech Pathology and Audiology, Faculty of Humanities, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa; and Department of Rehabilitative and Natural Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Fort Hare, East London. 2721837@wits.ac.za.
Summary
Younger Pedi generations use verbal and non-verbal social language skills respectfully within their families. Understanding these cultural communication nuances is vital for speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to provide culturally appropriate care.
Area of Science:
- Sociolinguistics
- Cultural Anthropology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- The Pedi culture highly values verbal and non-verbal communication practices.
- Limited research exists on social language use among younger Pedi generations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the social language skills and functions employed by younger generations within Pedi families.
- To document the nuances of verbal and non-verbal communication in Pedi youth.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative research design utilizing direct participant observations.
- Semi-structured interviews with 22 participants from seven Pedi families.
- Thematic analysis of collected qualitative data.
Main Results:
- Younger Pedi generations demonstrate respectful execution of verbal and non-verbal social language skills.
- Observed communication patterns reflect cultural values of respect and social interaction.
Conclusions:
- Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) must understand Pedi cultural communication nuances for effective intervention.
- Recognizing cultural communication practices as differences, not deficits, enhances SLP service delivery.
- Findings advocate for a more inclusive approach to pragmatics in speech-language pathology, valuing diverse communication practices.
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