The Role of Language in Social Stratification: Examining How Language Affects Social Identity

Abstract

In this study, the researcher has explored the role of language in shaping social class divisions and how language, through accents, dialects, and vocabulary choices, influences perceptions of class status in modern societies. Basedon Identity Negotiation Theory of Ting-Toomey, (2015), this research investigates how individuals use language as a tool for negotiating social identity, managing power dynamics and sometimes social hierarchy in everyday interactions. In addition to it, the study aims to answer two research questions: (1) What role does language play in the creation and maintenance of social class divisions in modern societies? and (2) How do accents, dialects, and vocabulary choices influence perceptions of class status? Moreover, data for this study was gathered through interviews with a diverse sample of individuals from different social classes, that provided a rich source of real-life examples of social stratification. The findings showed that language significantly contributes to social stratification, with accents and dialects work as markers of social class. The study also shows how individuals modify their language on the basis of context, such as shifting from formal speech in professional settings to informal language with friends. The research also highlights the continuing power of language in reinforcing class distinctions. It suggests that some individuals influenced by cultural, social, and educational factors, strive to change their language to align themselves with higher social classes. Furthermore, this paper actually contributes to the current discourse on language and social stratification and offer insights into how language shapes our understanding of class identity in both local and global contexts.