Functions of small talk in healthcare interpreting: an exploratory study in medical encounters facilitated by healthcare interpreters

Abstract

ABSTRACT This exploratory study analyses the functions of small talk in interpreter-mediated healthcare encounters. Drawing on a dataset of hospital visits with participation of five trained interpreters, analysis of particular excerpts reveals that small talk helps both patients and providers to fulfil functions similar to those reported in monolingual visits, thus (a) supporting interpersonal relationship building (e.g. establishing trust) and (b) goal achievement (e.g. minimising pain). Successful attainment of small talk functions relies heavily on healthcare interpreters, who are observed to co-construct and participate in small talk pursuing their own set of objectives, such as reassuring patients and facilitating the providers’ clinical work.