3.7.4. Reflexive and reciprocal pronouns
Reflexive pronouns appear in direct or indirect object position of a sentence. These pronouns have the same referent as the subject of the same sentence. In terms of form, reflexive pronouns have B-handshape with the outer left side of the palm oriented towards the signer. This form is only used with plain verbs. Agreement verbs and locative signs can be used to express reflexive relations as well [Syntax 2.1.3.3.]. Additionally, reflexive action can be expressed on the body of the signer with an optional usage of pronoun self (a-b). This is shown in DGS examples below.
a. peter shower wash
‘Peter takes a shower (himself).’
(based on Mehling, 2010: 104)
b. peter self shower wash
‘Peter takes a shower (himself).’
(based on Mehling, 2010: 104)
Reciprocal relations, just as reflexive ones, include a co-referential link between the agent and the undergoer of the event appearing in the same clause. However, in reciprocal relations, plural referents (a minimum number of two) are involved. In DGS, reciprocity is not marked on pronouns but rather expressed on the verbs [Morphology 3.1.3. and Syntax 2.1.3.4.].