Are Latinos Over-Estimating Their Language Abilities on Self-Reported Measures? [REPORT]
June 12, 2014
by Edward T. Rincón, Ph.D. – Rincón & Associates
The growing presence of the Latino population in the U.S. continues to challenge the ability of organizations in selecting the best linguistic strategy when communicating with Latinos. Commonly used self-reported measures of language behavior have limitations that may lead to unexpected outcomes when used in decisions regarding Latinos. This paper is designed to help organizations – academic, public agencies, and research practitioners — improve their understanding of Latino language behavior as one avenue for enhancing the response of Latinos to their communications.
Our own research shows that Latino immigrants tend to over-estimated their English speaking abilities, while native-born Latinos tend to over-estimate their Spanish-language abilities. Behavioral measures of language abilities are more valid than self-reported measures. Check out the attached white paper.
To download report CLICK HERE.
