Language Preference in Social Contexts: A Study of EFL Students' Linguistic Behavior and Identity

Abstract

Abstract : This study investigates the impact of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) on the linguistic behavior and identity construction of Bahraini tertiary-level bilinguals. Employing a convergent parallel mixed-methods design, the research examines how language choice in formal and informal social contexts reflects and constructs students' bilingual identities. The findings reveal that EFL Bahraini bilinguals' language preference is influenced by the formality of social contexts, relationships with interlocutors, and communicative purposes, with Arabic predominating in personal and informal contexts while English prevails in academic and professional contexts. Contrary to previous research suggesting Arabic language attrition among Arab EFL students, this study documents what appears to be a reverse paradigm shift in the perception of Bahraini bilingual speakers, wherein increased English proficiency has strengthened participants' commitment to their Arabic linguistic heritage and Bahraini cultural identity. The data confirms that Bahraini bilinguals' linguistic behavior emerges primarily as a communicative strategy governed by the social context's degree of formality and interlocutors, with most Bahraini participants demonstrating awareness of the complex relationship between foreign language acquisition and identity construction. Furthermore, the data reveal that their linguistic behavior enhances their bilingual identity rather than threatening their Bahraini Arabic identity. Keywords: Bilingualism, Language Choice, Language Preference, Code-Switching, Identity Construction, Linguistic Behavior, Social Context, Reverse Paradigm Shift, Kingdom of Bahrain