Does working memory independently influence language development in bilingual children? A 30-year reflection

Abstract

In 1992, Harrington posited that working memory is a key constraint on the development of a second language in adults but noted that stronger evidence is needed to establish its independent influence on language. In this paper, I reflect on advances in the study of working memory in bilinguals over the intervening 30 years, focusing on bilingual children. I consider theoretical and methodological changes that avoid confounding language and working memory. Empirical work on the role of working memory in bilingual language development is reviewed, noting that much recent work on this topic considers how language could shape working memory, rather than vice versa. I also discuss evidence from bilingual children with developmental language disorder, a population whose language weaknesses have been partly attributed to working memory constraints. Unifying evidence across bilingual populations – including adults and children, and typical and atypical language learners —is important to continue the field’s advancement.