The nature vs. nurture debate extends to the topic of language
acquisition. Today, most researchers acknowledge that both nature and nurture
play a role in language acquisition. However, some researchers emphasize the
influences of learning on language acquisition, while others emphasize the
biological influences.
Environmental Influences on Language
Acquisition
A major proponent of the idea that language depends largely on environment
was the behaviorist B. F. Skinner (see pages 145 and 276 for more
information on Skinner). He believed that language is acquired through
principles of conditioning, including association, imitation, and reinforcement.
According to this view, children learn words by associating sounds with
objects, actions, and events. They also learn words and syntax by imitating
others. Adults enable children to learn words and syntax by reinforcing correct
speech.
Critics of this idea argue that a behaviorist explanation is inadequate.
They maintain several arguments:
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