A Literature Review of Trends, Attitudes and Multilingual Learning in Research on Cross-Linguistic Influence

Abstract

This literature review identifies what trends and attitudes can be found and how the multilingual learning process is depicted in research on cross-linguistic influence (CLI) between 2009 and 2023. The aim of this is partly to investigate the changes that have followed the EU’s commitment to reinforce multilingualism and to compare current research with historical findings. Through database searches via Gothenburg University Library, 13 peer-reviewed empirical studies were found which could be included based on four inclusion criteria. The findings show that most studies focus on models, hypotheses and factors and aim to predict and explain when and why CLI occurs. Another finding shows a continued shift from a negative toward a neutral view of transfer. Lastly, a minority of the studies examine reverse and bidirectional transfer as well as the intentionality of CLI, illuminating both the complexity of the multilingual learning process and a shift from the long-standing tradition of monolingual prejudice.