Masters Thesis

Navigating identity issues in accent modification: perspectives from Japanese-accented English speakers

Purpose: The purpose of the current study is to explore the way two Japanese-accented English speakers communicate, and what emotions and reactions that communication brings up within each of the speakers. More importantly, the purpose of this study is to address the ways in which this data help can open up a dialogue about accent modification in the context of identity, and the possible establishment of clinical guidelines to guide professionals. Research Questions: How do daily communicative situations with native speakers of English affect two Japanese-accented English speakers’ relationship with their accents over time? How can we use this information to open up a dialogue about accent and identity in the context of accent modification therapy? Method: The current study is a qualitative research study conducted through a series of interviews focusing on two Japanese participants’ experience in an English language environment. Results: Power dynamics and access to resources shaped the emotions that arose for the two participants about their own accents, which in turn affected their relationships with those accents. Conclusions: This is important to accent modification therapy in that therapists should be trained and aware of the larger implications changing an accent has on one’s identity or relationship to the world around them.

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