Managing Affective Communication in Triadic Exchanges: Interpreters’ Zerorenditions and Non-renditions in Doctor-Patient Talk

Abstract

This chapter investigates how interpreters’ initiatives may either promote or inhibit affective communication in doctor-patient talk. In particular, so-called ‘zero-renditions’ and ‘non-renditions’ (Wadensjö 1998) are analysed from a conversation analytical perspective. The exchanges discussed are part of a sample of consultations between healthcare providers and migrant patients from English-speaking countries recorded in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia (Italy). The analysis suggests that affective displays are fairly numerous in doctor-patient talk; however, interpreters are not always at ease when dealing with them. The findings stimulate reflection on the relevance of a triadic management of affective sequences in interpreter-mediated doctor-patient talk.