Final answer:
Studies supporting the weak version of the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis include: Kay and Kempton (1984) on color terminology and memory, Martin (1986) on cultural language reflections, and Werker and Lalonde (1988) on infants' language-specific phoneme perception. These studies suggest language's influence on thought is present, but not absolute.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, which posits that language shapes thought and behavior, is supported by various studies that suggest a weak or soft influence rather than strict determinism. Three studies contributing to this idea are:
- Kay and Kempton (1984) revisited the classic color terminology debate, finding that linguistic categories influenced color memory, supporting the idea of linguistic relativity.
- Laura Martin (1986) critiqued the 'Eskimo words for snow' claim but acknowledged that language does reflect different cultural emphases, which may shape thought to some degree.
- Werker and Lalonde (1988) showed that infants' ability to distinguish phonemes is universal but eventually becomes tuned to the language they are exposed to, suggesting language progressively influences perception.
These studies align with a weak version of the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, indicating that while language may influence thought and perception, it does not rigidly determine them.