A new study, Burnout among sign language interpreters working in postsecondary institutions, was written by Jeffrey Levi Palmer, Jonah Winninghoff, Arlinda S. Boland, and Dr. Carrie Lou Bloom from the National Deaf Center on Postsecondary Outcomes.
In recent years, NDC’s work with colleges and training programs across the country has unveiled a shortage of interpreters across the country, despite a rise in need for interpreters with specialized skills and knowledge. With an increasingly dwindling pool of interpreters to support the needs of deaf students, interpreter burnout poses an additional threat to campus accessibility.
NDC’s new study looked at sign language interpreters who work in colleges and universities across the United States. Researchers asked interpreters to complete a short survey about how often they feel tired, stressed, or worn out from their job.
The results show that 18% of interpreters in these settings are dealing with burnout.
The study also found that burnout rates were higher for interpreters with disabilities and for interpreters who are LGBTQIA+.
Why does this matter? When interpreters leave their jobs because of burnout, it makes it harder for deaf students to get the skilled interpreters they need for classes and campus activities. This can affect how well students can learn and take part in college life.
The study’s authors say more research is needed to understand why some interpreters are at higher risk for burnout. This will help schools and organizations create better support systems so interpreters can stay in the profession longer.
