Working Memory Modulation in Bilingual Language Processing: The Role of Cognitive Control and Language Proficiency

Bilingualism represents a unique cognitive phenomenon that offers critical insights into the malleabilityof human cognitive systems. While extensive research has examined the relationship betweenbilingualism and executive function, the specific role of working memory (WM) in bilingual languageprocessing remains incompletely understood, with inconsistent findings across studies. This paperinvestigates how language proficiency modulates working memory involvement during bilingual languageprocessing and examines the mediating role of cognitive control mechanisms. Drawing on Baddeley'sworking memory model, Green's Inhibitory Control Model, and the Adaptive Control Hypothesis, wepropose an integrative framework that accounts for individual differences in bilingual experience.Through a comprehensive mixed-methods experimental design involving balanced and unbalancedbilinguals, this study employs verbal and visuospatial working memory tasks, language switchingparadigms, and standardized proficiency assessments. Expected findings suggest that second language(L2) proficiency systematically modulates the engagement of working memory resources, withvisuospatial components demonstrating more consistent bilingual advantages than verbal components.Results further indicate that cognitive control processes mediate the relationship between languageproficiency and working memory performance, particularly during high-demand language switchingconditions. These findings have significant theoretical implications for understanding the dynamicinterplay between linguistic experience and cognitive architecture, as well as practical applications forsecond language education, assessment design, and cognitive intervention programs.