In cognitive psychology, what does the term 'code switching' refer to?

• A. The ability to alternate between two or more languages or language varieties within a conversation or discourse.
• B. The tendency to forget words in one's native language when learning a second language.
• C. The process of learning a new language from scratch.
• D. The inability to understand figurative language.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the term 'code switching' as it relates to cognitive psychology and language use.
2. Understand that 'code switching' involves the use of multiple languages or language varieties by a speaker.
3. Recognize that it specifically refers to alternating between these languages or varieties within a single conversation or discourse.
4. Differentiate 'code switching' from other language-related phenomena such as forgetting words, learning a new language, or difficulties with figurative language.
5. Conclude that 'code switching' is best defined as the ability to alternate between two or more languages or language varieties during communication.