Exploring family language policies of Syrian families in Izmir

Language plays a vital role in shaping identity, preserving heritage, and fostering a sense of community especially within multilingual families affected by forced migration. Despite extensive research on the integration and social challenges of Syrian refugees in Türkiye, little attention has been given to their linguistic experiences within the family. This study addresses this gap by exploring the language practices of Syrian refugee families residing in a rural area of Izmir, Türkiye. Drawing on Spolsky's (2009) Tripartite Model of Family Language Policy, which encompasses language ideologies, practices, and management, this thesis examines how these families negotiate linguistic choices amid pressures to assimilate into Turkish society. The findings aim to shed light on the complexities of heritage language maintenance and the role of family language policies in supporting cultural continuity among forcibly displaced communities.