Object transfer in request–accept sequence in Japanese caregiver–child interactions

Abstract

Requesting an object or information is a basic and ubiquitous activity in human interactions, but the sequential organization of this activity varies considerably across speech communities. In line with the Language Socialization approach, this paper inquires into (1) how children formulate their acceptance of object requests made by caregivers, (2) the role of the requested object in request–accept sequences, and (3) the distinctive features of object requests in Japanese caregiver–child interactions (CCIs). Based on video data of Japanese caregiver–child (aged 0–5 years) interactions, we conducted an interaction analysis of conversations involving object transfer. The results revealed that the features of request–acceptance sequences are shaped by (1) the trigger of the object request, (2) the features of the requested object, (3) timing, bodily orientation, and the manner of transferring the requested object. By engaging in object request sequences, caregivers not only made reciprocal communication more effective but also set and modified the frame of their activity. The study also revealed that object request sequences are the place of negotiation for both children and caregivers with respect to (re)constructing the appropriate morality of Japanese culture.