Interpreting for Victims of Violence

Abstract

Victims of violence and interpreters share one trait: they are susceptible to trauma-related sequelae. Direct victims may develop PTSD while interpreters may develop vicarious trauma. This chapter sets out the legal basis for language access in healthcare, noting the important quality dimension added by the ACA. It then reviews the statistics for various forms of violence and presents some of its enormous societal costs. It also highlights the similarity of some of the symptoms observed in persons suffering from vicarious trauma, PTSD and burnout, but notes the difference in the genesis of these three conditions. This is followed by an introduction to trauma-informed approaches in delivering victim services. Finally, it lays the basis for identifying VT symptoms, mentions two online instruments that might be useful in assessing the likelihood of vicarious trauma, and reviews types of self-care techniques for creating a personal self-care plan.