ABSTRACT
Victims of trafficking, survivors of violence, and torture depend on public service spoken language interpreters for their words to be heard. Interpreters work in isolation, listening to and rendering people’s trauma, distress, and fear. They are highly susceptible to occupational hazards of vicarious trauma, burnout, and moral injury. This chapter is based on studies and experiences of interpreters active in legal, health care, and psychological/psychiatric/trauma-informed settings. It addresses the challenges which are typical for these work contexts, as well as in relation to teamwork with other professionals. It begins by addressing the emotional burden interpreters cope with, drawing on theoretical models for potential health impacts and the types of preventative measures they can take. It examines the implications of empathic engagement. It explores questions such as: can empathy ever be harmful? What are the potential ironic consequences of empathic engagement and compassionate action? What is the tension between ethical guidance and empathic performance? The chapter concludes by recommending that formal support with reflective self-care should be considered a collective, ethical responsibility. Reflective Practice Support Groups are included as an example of how interpreters can maintain resilience, fitness, and good practice with their clients.
