The deficit, difference, and bicultural theories of black dialect and nonstandard English

A summary & evaluation of three theories that have been used to interpret the linguistic characteristics of black & low SES children is provided. The deficit theory holds that a lack of stimulation of cognitive processes in poor children affects concept formation & abstract reasoning ability. The difference theory argues that poor & minority children are not culturally deprived, but that linguistic variations occur according to social stratification, ethnicity, & differences in speech. Social & environmental rather than cognitive explanations for poor linguistic development are sought. The bicultural theory questions both the two previous models & proposes an education model based on assumptions about interactions between black & dominant cultures. The bicultural nature of life in black communities is stressed in this model. Some general implications of all three approaches for educational policy are considered. 2 Figures, 26 References. Modified HA