This paper re-examines the controversial issues of the binding parameter in second language acquisition or anaphoric-binding, suggesting that the first language, rather than universal grammar (UG), plays an important role in interpreting the anaphora. In reviewing findings from other related disciplines, including linguistics and first language acquisition research, it is argued that the earlier claimed evidence, which suggested that second language learners (L2) were able to access UG by resetting their binding parameter, can be explained as the result of transfer from the learners' first languages. From this "transfer" perspective, some problems regarding long-distance anaphora in earlier studies can also be resolved more convincingly. It is further suggested that more attention should be given to L2 learners prior knowledge in their first language when investigating the effect of UG in second language acquisition. Examples are cited from Chinese, Japanese, and Korean. (Contains 33 references.) (Author/NAV)