NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

Which hypothesis suggests that stressors can inhibit language acquisition?

1. Affective-filter hypothesis

2. Input hypothesis

3. Monitor hypothesis

4. Interaction hypothesis

The correct answer is: Affective-filter hypothesis

The affective-filter hypothesis is centered around the role of emotions in the language learning process. It posits that emotional factors such as anxiety, stress, and motivation can impact second language acquisition. When learners experience high levels of stress or anxiety, it can create an "affective filter" that prevents the effective intake of language input. This means that even if the learners are exposed to comprehensible input, their ability to absorb and process that information is compromised due to these negative emotional states. In contrast, when learners are relaxed and motivated, their affective filter is lowered, enabling them to acquire language more successfully. The other hypotheses focus on different aspects of language acquisition. The input hypothesis emphasizes the importance of comprehensible input for language learning, the monitor hypothesis deals with the role of conscious grammar knowledge in language production, and the interaction hypothesis highlights the significance of interaction in language learning. While all these aspects are important in understanding the process of acquiring a second language, the affective-filter hypothesis specifically addresses how stressors can hinder that acquisition process.