Examining the Divide: Understanding the Perceptions and Relationships between Community and Educational Interpreters

Interpersonal relationships lay the foundation for the work of ASL–English interpreters. Professional relationships can have a significant impact on one’s behaviors, physical health, and psychological health, all of which can have impact on the work of an interpreter. This thesis explores the perceptions of, and relationships between, interpreters working primarily in community and K-12 educational settings. Prior to this study, no known research has been conducted examining the nature of interpersonal relationships between professional interpreters working in settings different from their own. An exploratory study was conducted through a survey and an interview to understand if and how interpreters develop and maintain cross-setting relationships with interpreters working in different primary settings