When something is heavily influenced, it means that it is strongly shaped or affected by certain factors or forces. In the context of language development, it refers to the idea that social and cultural interactions play a significant role in shaping how individuals acquire and use language.
Related terms
Social Interaction Theory: This theory suggests that language development occurs through social interactions with others, emphasizing the importance of communication exchanges between children and caregivers.
Cultural Influence: Cultural influence refers to the impact of one's culture on their beliefs, behaviors, values, and overall development. It plays a crucial role in shaping various aspects of an individual's life, including language acquisition.
The sociocultural perspective focuses on how society and culture influence human behavior and mental processes. It emphasizes that individuals develop through interacting with others and acquiring knowledge from their social environment.