Attitude towards Southern Bangladeshi Dialects in Formal Contexts

Abstract

The aim of the study is to reveal the attitude of people toward the usage of Southern dialects in any formal settings. Peoples’ attitude can be a reason to select or omit others’ language approach. This study searches the attitude of receivers, consequences of that attitude among the dialect users and how the dialects are received. The research has been conducted by using qualitative (interview) data analysis. The tools that have been used here are google keep note, messenger, phone recorder. 7 participants from all 3 southern divisions <Khulna, Chattogram, Barishal> were interviewed to have more tactile outcome about peoples’ attitude. Age group, occupation, experience and geographical location was meticulously chosen to achieve an eclectic result. This study reveals partially positive attitude toward the use and users of Southern dialects of Bangladesh respecting human individuality but mostly receivers do not accept the deliberate practice of dialects in formal settings. Study result may help to understand and form future practice about dialects in formal settings. Again, it clarifies the current position of standard variety and dialects in both user and receiver perspectives. Also, the changing dynamics toward local and regional languages are highlighted in this study.