Theory of ecology of pressures as a tool for classifying language shift in bilingual communities

Abstract This article examines the stage of language shift in Tlaxco (Santiago Tlaxco), a bilingual Nahuatl-Spanish-speaking community in Puebla, Mexico. We employ the theory of ecology of pressure framework to identify and analyze the pressures that favor or deter language maintenance of Nahuatl and categorize the level of language shift. The research data were drawn from 207 completed census questionnaires in 50 homes. Our findings show that Nahuatl is vigorous and used in the home and the community. Nahuatl is the preferred language of communication with adults and the older generation, while Spanish is commonly used with and among the youth. Based on these results, we conclude that Nahuatl continues to thrive in the community, with the risk of Spanish gradually replacing Nahuatl as the preferred language of communication across all age groups if the current youth population does not follow the current language use pattern as they enter adulthood. This study is one of the first to analyze the sociolinguistic situation of Tlaxco (Santiago Tlaxco). The findings, which are discussed in conjunction with other qualitative and observational studies, also provide a snapshot of a community at the potential early stage of language shift.