PSYCHOLOGICAL BASIS OF ROLE TAKING IN CROSS-CULTURAL MEDIATION IN TRANSLATION

Abstract

In the context of cross-cultural mediation in translation the problem of switching between different conceptual and linguistic worldviews is of particular interest. The present paper suggests that this switching should be seen as switching between different linguacultural roles, i.e. the roles of members of the source and target cultures. The aim of this article is to identify and describe the psychological resources, processes and mechanisms involved in taking the role of a member of a different culture. Based on the analysis of relevant literature the following psychological resources required for taking a different linguacultural role have been identified: a) empathy; b) agency; c) creativity; d) reflection; e) willingness to invest in taking a new role. The practical value of the present paper is determined by the fact that a better understanding of the above-mentioned psychological resources, processes and mechanisms can enable improvements in teaching translation and foreign languages to trainee translators by making students’ learning activity more conscious, purposeful and professionally-oriented. Practical recommendations for implementing the proposed ideas are provided.