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Linguistic insecurity in Winnipeg: Validation of a Canadian index of linguistic insecurity

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  18 December 2008

Thomposon W. Owens  and
Paul M. Baker
Thomposon W. Owens
Affiliation:
Winnipeg School District
Paul M. Baker
Affiliation:
Department of Sociology, University of Victoria
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Abstract

The study reported here reports data on the validity of a Canadian version of Labov's “index of linguistic insecurity.” Data were gathered from a random sample of two census tracts in Winnipeg, Canada. Both Labov's original test and a new Canadian equivalent test were given to the sample of eighty adults. Scores on the two tests were highly correlated, indicating high criterion validity of the Canadian test. Also, social class and gender differences followed the same pattern as in Labov's study, with the lower middle class and females showing higher levels of linguistic insecurity. The use of the New York City test in Winnipeg is discussed, and some details concerning Canadian English are presented. (Language attitudes, linguistic insecurity, Canadian English, social class)

Type
Articles
Information
Language in Society , Volume 13 , Issue 3 , September 1984 , pp. 337 - 350
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1984

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