Bilingualism in Döver Mahallesi in Defne District of Hatay

As a communication tool, language is one the most basic structures that distinguish humans from other living species. Language has an interdisciplinary field of study with this aspect. In anthropology, which is the science of human being, ethnic and religious identity, economy, social structure, traditions, kinship, marriage, and various other structures can be analyzed through language. One of the studies on language is anthropological studies on bilingualism. In this study, the bilingualism process in Döver Mahallesi of Hatay's Defne District was discussed. The majority of Arab Alevis (Nusayris) living in Döver Mahallesi can speak both Arabic and Turkish. The main focus of this study is when these bilingual individuals speak which language, and the reasons affecting their preferences. In this context, the data obtained as a result of the field research were analyzed and the results were attempted to be reached. It has been aimed to focus on the effects of everyday events on bilingualism, and the relationship between social relations, public existence, differences between generations, gender variables and religious education, and language. Issues such as language preferences of bilingual people in economics, migration and political processes, in the effects of everyday events on language, in the language used to restrict or construct ethno-religious identity, in perceptions of and attitudes of individuals towards bilingualism, in differences between generations, and in the public and private areas are revealed.