Research on the acculturation model for second language acquisition

Abstract This paper presents a model of second language acquisition based on the social‐psychology of acculturation. The model maintains that certain social and psychological variables cluster into a single variable, acculturation. The model predicts that learners will acquire the target language to the degree they acculturate to the target language group. Six studies that, in various, ways seek to test the Acculturation Model are reviewed and evaluated. Technical problems that affect such research are discussed, and the current status of the model is assessed. Notes A preliminary version of this paper was presented at the symposium on Current Approaches to Second Language Acquisition, University of Wisconsin ‐ Milwaukee, March 29–31, 1984.