Constrained Multilingualism (Elements in Intercultural Communication) - Softcover

Santello, Marco

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1009650599 ISBN 13: 9781009650595

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 2026

Synopsis

This Element highlights the role of constraints in shaping multilingualism. It discusses their conceptualisation, starting from Michel de Certeau's view of action in everyday life, and operationalisation for the study of migrants. The results of the research conducted among Gambian migrants in Italy show not only constraints but also the tactics to inhabit them, as well as non-language related aspects, for example suffering, which are grouped into five clusters. These are (1) lack of support; (2) limited interaction in the 'local' language; (3) immigration status in conjunction with life events; (4) others' behaviour; and (5) other concerns and suffering. The conclusion presents a discussion on the wider significance of what incorporating constraints means for our understanding of multilingualism and migration, including policy implications, and for intercultural communication research.

Edition details

• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Publication date: 2026
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 1009650599
• ISBN 13: 9781009650595
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 64