Cross-linguistic influence on VOT in multilingual children

Abstract This study examines cross-linguistic influence (CLI) in the VOT values of word-initial stops produced by three groups of children (aged 5;08 to 13;11): English-Mandarin simultaneous bilinguals ( N = 21), English-Mandarin sequential bilinguals ( N = 15), and English-Spanish-Mandarin trilinguals ( N = 15). Data came from picture naming tasks in each language and was analyzed by comparing group means and exploring individual cases. CLI from English to Mandarin occurred for most participants, with some cases of monolingual-like separation between Mandarin and English aspirated/voiceless stops possibly linked to dominance and exposure factors. Spanish voiceless stops were separate from English and Mandarin for most trilinguals, but limited Spanish input may have prevented full development of Spanish voiced categories. When Spanish voiced categories were present, CLI from these to English and Mandarin was observed. Results are discussed considering previous literature on the role of phonetic similarity and individual linguistic experience in CLI in child multilingualism.