@article{article_1587071, title={“May our language not perish. Our language is our memory.”: A mixed-methods investigation of the ethnolinguistic vitality of Laz}, journal={Dilbilim Araştırmaları Dergisi}, volume={36}, pages={381–412}, year={2026}, DOI={10.18492/dad.1587071}, url={https://izlik.org/JA58PJ82UE}, author={Akkuş, Mehmet and Sağın Şimşek, Çiğdem and Akın, Gülay}, keywords={Lazca, etnodilbilimsel canlılık, Türkçe, tehlike altındaki diller}, abstract={This study explores the contemporary status of Laz, an endangered South Caucasian language, exploring factors shaping its vitality within the ethnolinguistic vitality framework. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research utilizes questionnaires and interviews within Laz-speaking communities. While the questionnaires (n=259) probed vitality-related aspects, the interviews (n=5) offered narrative data, essential for understanding lived experiences and perceptions of the community. Bridging a crucial gap in research by encompassing socio-cultural and demographic dimensions, the study reveals diverse influences on the visibility of Laz. This innovative approach contributes significantly to the broader field, offering a holistic exploration of ethnolinguistic vitality. Findings expose variations shaped by linguistic, cultural, and social dynamics. The quantitative data unveil statistically significant mean disparities in the perceptions of vitality held by the speakers towards their heritage language. The qualitative analysis, focusing on generational tensions, societal adaptations, and language use, underscores the resilience and challenges faced by the Laz.}, number={3 - Türkiye’de Tehlikedeki Diller Özel Sayısı (Konuk Editörler: Mehmet Akkuş, Çiğdem Sağın Şimşek) / Special Issue - Endangered Languages in Turkey (Guest Editors: Mehmet Akkuş, Çiğdem Sağın Şimşek)}, organization={TÜBİTAK}