In linguistics, which concept is associated with an innate mechanism for language acquisition?

• A. Behaviorism
• B. Linguistic Competence
• C. Demand Characteristics
• D. Language Acquisition Device

Answer: (D)

The main idea being tested is an innate mechanism for language learning. The concept that fits this idea best is the Language Acquisition Device, a term from Chomsky describing an inborn mental module that guides children as they acquire language. The LAD is thought to provide universal grammatical principles and help children infer the rules of their language from the input they hear, even when that input is limited or imperfect. This contrasts with behaviorist views that treat language as something learned purely through imitation and reinforcement, without an internal endowment. While linguistic competence refers to a speaker’s internal knowledge of grammar, it describes the outcome of learning rather than the innate mechanism itself. Demand characteristics are about how participants might respond in studies, not about how language is acquired.