Competence of interpreters in a South African psychiatric hospital in translating key psychiatric terms.
OBJECTIVE
Provision of good-quality interpreting services in mental health practice is essential, but little is known about interpreting psychiatric terms in low-and middle-income countries. This study examined the basic translation competencies of interpreters in a South African psychiatric hospital.


METHODS
In the context of a larger study, six individuals who interpreted from English into Xhosa were asked to translate key psychiatric terms into Xhosa. These translations were back-translated by translators unfamiliar with psychiatric terminology, and back-translations were compared with the original English.


RESULTS
Some interpreters had a very limited command of English. None had formal training in interpreting. Not all were familiar with core psychiatric concepts. Incorrect translations were often made.


CONCLUSIONS
The competence level of the interpreters was not conducive to optimal care. The lack of formally trained interpreters in South Africa's public health services could lead to misdiagnosis and could compromise interventions.
Kilian
Sanja
S
Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
Swartz
Leslie
L
Joska
John
J
D000328:Adult; D032882:Comprehension; D005260:Female; D006778:Hospitals, Psychiatric; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011361:Professional Competence; D013019:South Africa; D009626:Terminology as Topic; D014175:Translating