This study is a library study aimed at figuring out how language attitude plays an
important role in maintaining particular language, by taking a look at the case of
Javanese language. Javanese language is viewed as a case here, as Javanese language is
considered as being endangered though not by the size but by the fact that it has lost its
public function, it is no longer effectively taught to the next generation, and it has
undergone shrinkage in both variety and properties. Language contact, language policy,
and language attitude are seen as the reasons of Javanese language shifted by Bahasa
Indonesia. Javanese positive language attitude is suggested as the key factor in
maintaining Javanese language because the first two factors are inevitable and are
difficult to be changed. Positive language attitude is important in maintaining Javanese
language because once the attitude is enriched with the cognitive and affective aspects of
considering Javanese language as part of the speakers identity – and culture in the
bigger sense – the attitude toward Javanese language will be positive and this will lead to
positive behavior toward Javanese language as well
