The joy and pain of growing up multilingual | Maria Kotova | TEDxYouth@ISPrague

It is a well-known fact nowadays that languages have a strong effect on our brain. However, not many give thought to the concept that even one’s personality can change depending on the language one speaks in. Maria, a third culture child, explores the concept of linguistic determinism and the connection between language and identity through personal experiences and linguistic analysis. Maria comes from a Russian family and since moving to Prague, she has attended a Czech school before coming to the International School of Prague. She is passionate about learning languages and communicating with people all around the world. It is a well-known fact nowadays that languages have a strong effect on our brain. However, not many give thought to the concept that even one’s personality can change depending on the language one speaks in. Maria, a third culture child, explores the concept of linguistic determinism and the connection between language and identity through personal experiences and linguistic analysis. Maria comes from a Russian family and since moving to Prague, she has attended a Czech school before coming to the International School of Prague. She is passionate about learning languages and communicating with people all around the world. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at www.ted.com/tedx

[@nekonoonna]

That was beaufiful 🥰
I had the same problem - 'who am I?'
I was brought up in Germany and have roots in poland. My whole live I said and thought I am half German and half Polish not a whole German or Polish. I cried when someone told me :' why are you half? You are two!' and so are you!

[@chris78945]

Thanks, a great talk! I really agree that every language you speak gives you a different personality. I've learned several languages well in my life but speak English and Spanish on a daily basis. My girlfriend says when I speak English I'm "not a nice person". English is the language for doing practical things for me (like business) and Spanish is for relationships and showing affection.

[@noradellaceca396]

Seguramente es bueno el vídeo, pero sólo entiendo castellano