Using census data from 2001 to 2016, we provide evidence that the French language is gaining ground in Quebec. We show that the apparent decline of French in Quebec is linked to a rise in multilingualism, especially when French is one of the multiple languages spoken. We argue that the census statistics are distorted by inter-linguistic marriages…

Critiques the concept of ethnolinguistic vitality developed by Giles, Bourhis, and Taylor. Argues that the dimensions of vitality outlined are ambiguous, and gross and inexact tools of analysis in their application. (EKN)

A model of language vitality is proposed that is a function of preferences for language choice, percentage of language-minority speakers, and the expectations-based adjustment to the observed change in language vitality. It shows that long-term survival with low demolinguistic figures is possible and suggests policy guidelines for reversing…

Attempts to tackle theoretical and empirical problems of measurement in the study of linguistic minorities from sociological and demographic perspectives. The operations of a language community, the growth of a language group, language shift, and language maintenance are addressed in terms of language community membership, current language…

Analyzes the self-report questions on language and ethnicity used in population censuses. Attempts to show the methodological consequences of specific question phrasings for the measurement of language maintenance and shift and of ethnic group maintenance and assimilation. Supports the analysis with examples from U.S. and Canadian censuses. (SED)

This article outlines a research project conducted in Perpignan in 1988 that sought to discover and describe the varieties of language present in the town, patterns of language use and language attitudes among inhabitants. The research took the form of a questionnaire survey, used with a representative sample of the population. (Contains 10…

Analyzes ethnolinguistic vitality of the French community in Louisiana in terms of its demographic, economic, political and cultural capitals. Results suggest that the present generation of youth of Cajun and French descent will not be able to transmit the French language to its children. (75 references) (Author/CK)