Conceptualizing Culture, Power, and Ethics in Interpreter-mediated Medical Encounters

Description

The dynamic interactions and goal-oriented nature of Interpreter-mediated medical encounters have proven to be fertile ground for advancing the theories and practices of interpreting studies. Because individuals’ understanding of health and illness are culturally oriented and contextually situated, participants in interpreter-mediated medical encounters navigate the textual narratives as they negotiate layers of meanings and imbalance of powers in the shifting landscape of intercultural bioethics. Using data collected from provider-patient interactions and in-depth interviews, Dr. Hsieh will examine interpreters’ functions and ethical dilemmas in managing cross-cultural care.