LANGUAGE AS A FACTOR OF ETHNIC-IDENTITY

Empirical study of language and ethnic identity interrelations in Khaz akhs residing in poliethnical region is presented. It has been found t hat the level of competence in ethnic and <<foreign>> language and the degree of its coincidence with verbal behaviour influence contents an d manifestation of ethnic identity. High competence in native language and low one in foreign (Russian) language result in mono-ethnical ide ntity accompanied by marked inter-group favouritism. Equal competence in ethnic and <<foreign>> languages promotes biethnical competence and biethnical identity formation. Language assimilation in ethno-social situation characterised by ethnic language prevailing results in inter personal conflicts and marginal ethnic identity formation.