Sign Language Varieties in Costa Rica

This paper offers a preliminary examination of several sign language varieties in use in Costa Rica and attempts to explain the relationship among these varieties. Using comparative lexical data from these sign language varieties, this paper presents evidence that there are at least four distinct sign languages in Costa Rica: (1) LESCO, a Costa Rican Sign Language distinct from (North) American Sign Language; (2) “Original LESCO” and “New LESCO;” (3) “Brunca Sign Language;” and (4) “Bribri Sign Language.” The conclusion summarizes the findings and discusses some implications for future research.