Individual differences in the second language processing of object–subject ambiguities

• Published in: Applied psycholinguistics Vol. 36; no. 2; pp. 129 - 173
• Main Author: HOPP, HOLGER
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, USA Cambridge University Press 01.03.2015
• Subjects: Ambiguity; Automation; Bilingualism; English; German; German language; Grammar; Grammatical subject; Individual Differences; Information processing; Integration; Language; Language processing; Language Proficiency; Learning; Lexical Access; Linguistics; Monolingualism; Morphology; Morphosyntax; Native language; Nouns; Observation; Pattern recognition; Reading rate; Second language learning; Second Languages; Semantics; Semiotics; Sentences; Short term memory; Syntactic analysis; Syntactic Processing; Syntax; Verbs
• ISSN: 0142-7164; 1469-1817
• DOI: 10.1017/S0142716413000180

This study investigates whether and how individual differences modulate the adult second language (L2) processing of syntactic ambiguities. In a linear mixed regression analysis, we test how proficiency, working memory, reading speed, automaticity in lexical access, and grammatical integration ability affect the resolution of temporary object–subject ambiguities in L2 English. The results from 75 first language German advanced learners attest that individual differences in syntactic integration ability modulate the reliance on morphosyntactic and plausibility information. Similar to native speakers, L2 learners are found to adopt two different routes in L2 processing. The findings highlight the role of individual differences and qualify previous generalizations about the relative use of morphosyntactic and other types of information in L2 processing.