Selectivity of Second Language Attrition

Abstract

The aim of this article is to provide an overview of second language attrition and its selective features. Second language attrition is reviewed from two different perspectives: from perspective of linguistic components as well as of language skills. Selectivity of second language attrition is analyzed in light of Markedness Theory, Retrieval Fail Hypothesis, Functional Load Theory and Regression Hypothesis. Following conclusions are obtained: 1) from the perspective of linguistic components, at intra-component level (within phonology, lexicon, morphology and syntax), second language attrition is selective: linguistic items, which are of high frequency, of high functional load and less marked, are maintained better during second language attrition; At inter-component level, generally, lexicon is more subjective to attrition than morphology and syntax, while phonology can be quite robust to attrition. 2) As for the perspective of language skills, productive skills are more subject to attrition than receptive skills.