Pracovní stres v komunitním tlumočení: dotazníkové šetření mezi tlumočníky s pracovními jazyky čeština a španělština

Abstract

It is generally accepted that interpreting is a stressful occupation. However, literature on the topic of work-related stress and the stress factors involved in the profession of public service interpreters remains scarce. By presenting a few studies aimed at analyzing the impact of stress on interpreters working primarily in public service settings, as well as in legal settings, this article provides an overview of potential stress factors and highlights the need for training in recognizing potentially stressful situations and knowing how to cope with them among students of interpreting. The second part of the article analyzes the data from a questionnaire survey conducted among 41 Czech/Spanish interpreters, which was designed as part of a larger study. The findings are consistent with previous research on the topic; overall, the interpreters indicated that the stress they experience stems mostly from inadequate working conditions, such as noise, poor acoustics and ventilation, connection problems, etc., as well as from not having enough time to prepare for an assignment. To a lesser extent, they also mentioned being affected by the pressure associated with the importance of the assignment, their lack of knowledge of the terms used in Spanish, and the content of what was being interpreted.