Sociolinguistics Variables that Influence Language Choice in Multilingual Churches

Churches in Kajiado North Sub-County draw members from diverse linguistic backgrounds making language choice a critical aspect. This study set out to examine sociolinguistics factors that influence language choice in multilingual churches in Kajiado North sub county. The study was guided by Markedness theory by Mryer Scotton (1998.The research employed a descriptive research design while 10% of the total population of churches (297) and total population of church officials (1478) as proposed by Kelinger (1973) was employed. Therefore, target population comprised of 30 churches and 148 church leaders. Simple random sampling was used to select 30 churches while systematic random sampling was used to select 148 church officials. An interview guide was used to collect data from church officials on sociolinguistics variables that determine language choice in churches. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and presented using tables and pie charts while qualitative data was analyzed thematically and presented through thematic description supported by representative participants responses. The study findings revealed various sociolinguistics variables determined language choice which include age, social class, language ideologies, service structure and domain. The study therefore concludes that language choice in church contexts is dynamic, socially embedded process shaped by both structural norms and individual agency. This study provides insights into how language choice and practices within institutions influence participation, identity and inclusion. It further contributes to sociolinguistics scholarly by demonstrating how language choice functions as a source of constructing and negotiating social stratification in multilingual setting.

Multilingualism”, Domain”, Social status

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