On the primacy of theory in applied studies: a critique of Pienemann and Johnston (1987)

Abstract

This article critiques Pienemann and Johnston (1987), an influential model of the acquisition of ESL morphology. While Pienemann and Johnston claimed that their model is confirmed and supported by the generative approach to morphology developed in Selkirk (1982), this article indicates that Selkirk's lexicalist theory actually opposes their proposals. In addition, this article demonstrates that their proposals are incompatible with syntactic analyses of word formation. The widespread influence of the Pienemann and Johnston model suggests that L2 researchers must ensure that models of SLA are solidly grounded in foundational theories.