A Brief Sociocultural And Historical Analysis Of African American English

The present literature review explores the concept of African American English (AAE) by analyzing the historical and cultural factors that contribute to language as a tool of systemic racism and marginalization of Black Americans, especially in regard to education and speech language pathology. Five main questions were posed: 1) What is African American history? 2) What is the origin of AAE? 3) How is AAE perceived? 4) What are the implications for using AAE? 5) What are the implications for AAE use in regard to speech language pathology? The conclusion of the literature review is that while the analysis and implications of AAE is progressing to be more inclusive, in society and in the field of speech language pathology, further research is needed to have a more representative and in-depth understanding of speech and language patterns of AAE speakers. It is also imperative that clinicians are familiar with ethical and mindful practices related to working with culturally and linguistically diverse clients.