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13 - Pointing in Chimpanzees Who Use American Sign Language

from Part Two - Evolutionary Perspectives

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  23 June 2026

By
Mary Lee A. Jensvold
Edited by
Mark A. Krause,
Kim A. Bard and
David A. Leavens
Mark A. Krause
Affiliation:
Southern Oregon University
Kim A. Bard
Affiliation:
University of Michigan, Dearborn
David A. Leavens
Affiliation:
University of Sussex
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Summary

Pointing signs are integral to sign language structures. Sign language studies with chimpanzees offer a unique comparative approach to exploring pointing. Some signs in ASL include a pointing handshape and include ME, YOU, GO, UP, THAT, and THERE. Sign logs are records of the chimpanzees’ signs and contain rich detail on the form and uses of signs in relaxed natural interactions. Records from sign logs show chimpanzees modulated the direction and placement of the pointing signs, which changed referent or indicated movement. With pointing signs, chimpanzees make requests, initiate activities, share information, direct attention, and make comments. They use pointing signs in interactions with humans, each other, and even while signing privately. In these studies throughout their lives humans communicated with these chimpanzees using ASL. This exposure shaped the many ways these unique chimpanzees point.

Keywords

chimpanzeeAmerican Sign Languagepointhandshape

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Type
Chapter
Information
Pointing
Culture, Development, and Evolution
 , pp. 249 - 266
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2026

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