The Shared Vocabulary in Sign Languages: A Comparative Study of ASL, BSL, and LSF
Sign languages, much like spoken languages, are constantly evolving systems with unique dialects and regional variations. This article delves into the shared vocabulary among three prominent sign languages—American Sign Language (ASL), British Sign Language (BSL), and French Sign Language (LSF)—highlighting the influence of historical and cultural exchanges on their development.
Introduction to ASL, BSL, and LSF
Every sign language has its roots in unique linguistic and cultural contexts. American Sign Language (ASL) is the primary sign language used in the United States and parts of Canada. British Sign Language (BSL) is the primary sign language in the United Kingdom. French Sign Language (LSF) is the primary sign language in France and parts of Belgium, Switzerland, and Canada. Each of these languages has its distinct characteristics but shares several concepts of linguistic evolution, resulting in commonalities across different dialects.
Historical Influences Shaping Sign Languages
The development of ASL is intricately linked with that of LSF. In the early 19th century, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc came from France to establish the Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb Persons in Hartford, Connecticut. Gallaudet, who studied both English and LSF (a form of early French Sign Language) with Clerc, brought these linguistic insights together to create a unique educational synthesis.
Similarities and Differences Among ASL, BSL, and LSF
1. ASL and LSF: ASL evolved from LSF, and as a result, there are many signs in ASL that are very similar or shared with LSF. Both languages are classified as manual languages, using hands, fingers, and facial expressions for communication.
2. BSL and LSF: In contrast, BSL and LSF share fewer signs, reflecting the distinct development paths each language has followed. BSL, due to its isolation from the French tradition and its closer ties with spoken British English, has developed its own unique sign vocabulary to accommodate specific linguistic and cultural needs.
Shared Vocabulary and Emerging Trends
Despite these differences, it is not uncommon to find signs in ASL, BSL, and LSF that share common roots. These shared signs often evolve from similar linguistic and social contexts that have influenced both sign languages. For example, in the domain of family relationships, terms for 'mother,' 'father,' and 'brother' in ASL, BSL, and LSF often share similar hand configurations and orientations. This shared vocabulary contributes to the comprehensibility of sign languages between speakers of different sign language traditions.
Emerging Trends in Comparative Sign Language Studies
As sign language research continues to evolve, there is a growing interest in understanding the complex influences on sign language development. Comparative studies in sign language linguistics are becoming more prevalent, and there is a recognition of the need for more cross-linguistic research. Efforts such as the World Federation of the Deaf (WFD) and the Linguistic Society of America (LSA) are actively promoting these studies to foster greater understanding and respect for the diversity of sign languages.
Conclusion
Sign languages, with their rich and evolving nature, have much to teach us about human language development and cultural exchange. The shared vocabulary among ASL, BSL, and LSF serves as a testament to the interconnectedness of sign languages, reflecting the historical and cultural exchanges that have shaped these unique linguistic systems. As research in sign language linguistics deepens, the shared vocabulary continues to play a crucial role in enhancing cross-cultural understanding and communication.