Yo Siento Que Tengo Un Privilegio: Exploring the Experiences of Child Language Brokers

Abstract

ABSTRACT A child language broker is an individual who is interpreting between two parties due to a language difference. Previous research has focused on the parentification, undue burden, and stress on the child who is engaging in this practice. While these concerns are well researched and valid, there is a positive lens to the system in which this child language broker operates. Designed from an interpretivism framework, this qualitative study specifically focused on the experiences and positive memories of eight, Spanish speaking college students who have language brokered throughout their entire lives. To understand their perspectives about what their life experiences entailed, each participant completed a semi-structured interview with the researcher. The results of this study indicated that there are many positive and protective factors associated with language brokering as a child, adolescent, as well as an adult. Findings in the areas of increased pride in culture, as well as language, public perception of the family, and positive memories of language brokering, are discussed. While this study detailed how adult language brokers reflect on their experiences, additional research is needed to further understand the sources of resilience and family dynamics contributing to their experience and feelings regarding language brokering.