Linguistics is concerned with understanding the structure and properties of language, as well as how it is used in communication. Psycholinguistics investigates the psychological processes involved in the acquisition, production, comprehension, and use of language. These are closely interrelated fields characterized by extensive areas of overlap.
Studies in linguistics primarily examine sounds, language grammar, word meanings, and how languages change over time and across cultures. On the other hand, research in psycholinguistics is concerned with investigating how language is processed: how we understand words and sentences and how we are able to produce them. Psycholinguistics also studies language development in children and the nature and impact of language disorders (e.g., aphasia and dyslexia).
Together, linguistics and psycholinguistics provide insight into the complex nature of language and its role in human cognition and communication. The research findings in this field have practical applications in areas such as education, school instruction, and language therapy.
We pursue our research goals by employing a variety of experimental or quasi-experimental methodologies and utilizing both behavioral measurements (e.g., reaction times, eye movement tracking, questionnaires, observation) and psychophysiological measurements (e.g., EEG, EMG, ECG, and skin conductance recordings).
At DiPSCo, we have a particular interest in: reading and reading disorders; text comprehension and comprehension disorders; bilingualism; writing; interactions between language and other cognitive functions.