Presenter: Dr. S. Jordan Wright
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Description: This presentation will share the results of an investigation into signed language interpreter’s perspectives of working in settings related to sexual health. Studies have shown that the health literacy of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States significantly lags behind that of their hearing peers, which leads to adverse and delayed care (IGS 2003; McKee et al. 2015; Heuttel & Rothstein 2001). Sexual Health access; particularly as it relates to Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) when encountered by the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC deaf communities is an underserved topic cloaked in taboo beliefs, a dearth of research, and compounded barriers for access of information. The findings of our pilot study have been extrapolated from three focus groups where signed language interpreters working in the United States reflected on their experiences of interpreting in sexually transmitted infection (STI) related medical scenarios. Findings reveal that interpretations vary widely based on factors including inconsistencies of sexual knowledge, professional preparation, academic training, personally held beliefs related to sex, and trust. This investigation leads us to sharply examine what becomes “lost in translation” for deaf and hard of hearing people who receive their health information through signed language interpretation. We aim to spotlight gaps in the healthcare setting that can be remedied for long-term improvement of sexual health access.
Educational Objectives: Participants will be able to:
Identify at least two sexual health gaps in sign language interpreter training
Understand the concept of “master narrative” as it relates to interpreting in sexual health settings
Articulate at least two current topics that are deemed taboo, stigmatized, or marginalized
Create and participate in dialogue around approaches interpreters can take to avoid the widely varied inconsistencies in interpretations in these settings
Target Audience: D/Hearing Interpreters/
Workshop Style: Interactive (some audience participation but mostly lecture)
Language of Presentation: Signed ASL, with English interpretation.
