We've all heard of what an accent is and their associated accent myths as well. However, speaking with an accent still has a negative connotation in the workplace and society. Practices to correct and improve accents like accent modification are also commonly misunderstood.
Keep reading to see if you still believe these myths about accents and accent modification.
This is a common misconception about accents, and it's false!
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, an accent is "a way of speaking typical of a particular group of people and especially of the natives or residents of a region." This means that an accent refers to an individual's pronunciations, which commonly identify the individual's social background.
So it is impossible to speak without an accent. By definition, everyone has an accent.
False! Accent modification does not promote GAE.
It is important to note that accent modification does not remove one's identity. Instead, it teaches someone how to produce a language they’re not native to. It doesn't promise that it will eliminate an accent but rather focuses on ways an individual can be a clear and effective speaker. The degree of training is entirely up to the client.
This is false. Accent modification does not come from a place of discrimination. Accent modification can also be offered for any language, regardless of language background.
Accents will always exist since they're a integral part of speaking. However, we recognize that accent and linguistic discrimination can disproportionally affect speakers.
Visit our website to read more about what an SLP can do for you. Or book a free 15-minute consultation to speak to our team.