Question

1. It's unclear whether Genie had any mental retardation (either from birth or as a result of her abuse). Why does this fact make her case problematic for deriving clear conclusions about the Critical Period Hypothesis?

2. Does Genie's learning of vocabulary words constitute acquisition of language? Why or why not? If it is language, then why should she have been able to learn some vocabulary, but not able to learn rules of grammar (i.e., syntax and morphology)?

3. Can you imagine a more “ideal case” for testing the Critical Period Hypothesis? What kind of case could provide clearer evidence that one cannot acquire a first language after puberty?  

Answer 1

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(Answer 1) Critical Period Hypothesis is still a subject of debate. Some experts assume that learning languages are linked to age. However, this issue has the characteristics of a symptom as opposed to a cause. In the case above, experts assume that Genie has trouble picking up a language either because of a birth defect or psychological trauma from abuse.

In order to analyse a symptom, one should have a thorough understanding of the cause itself. Since the experts are confused about what the exact cause might be, it becomes tougher to understand the symptom and even find a solution.

(Answer 2) Does Genie's learning of vocabulary words constitute acquisition of language? Why or why not? If it is language, then why should she have been able to learn some vocabulary, but not able to learn rules of grammar (i.e., syntax and morphology)?

Note* I am assuming details about the case. Please make sure this response is befitting of the case. If not, please leave case-details in the comments below.

When one picks up a new language there are always 2 different elements. One is to memorise words and concepts. The other is to understand the grammar and rules. They are both equally important elements. A baby memorises the word “mama”. But a toddler understands inflection and syntax and eventually forms a sentence that they have never heard before at home. For example, Can I go play with John?

Genie is a subject who seems to be able to memorise words without fully “understanding.” If there is no understanding, the grammar and rules of English may not be easily absorbed. The subject seems only to mirror the words she hears.

(Answer 3) Critical Period Hypothesis is probably either biological or circumstantial. (I say ‘probably’ because experts are still trying to gain a sharper understanding of the subject.) Therefore any case where the patient has suffered from both biological and circumstantial anomalies would be a good case for Critical Period Hypothesis. Let us assume there is a child in the late 1930’s in Germany. This child was born autistic. An autistic child is able to pick up language fairly well. However, mental trauma this child has faced from losing family members under Nazi rule has had a terrible effect on the child. This child hasn’t been able to speak well for years now. Is it because of any biological strain or unfortunate circumstances?