3.4 Navigating cultural differences and language barriers

Interviewing trauma survivors from diverse backgrounds requires cultural competence and sensitivity. Journalists must understand cultural norms, adapt their approach, and navigate language barriers to build trust and gather accurate information.

Recognizing personal biases and power dynamics is crucial when interviewing across cultures. By practicing cultural humility and seeking feedback, journalists can improve their skills and create a more equitable interview process for trauma survivors.

Cultural Competence in Trauma Interviews

Understanding Cultural Competence

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• Cultural competence involves understanding, respecting, and effectively interacting with people across cultures
• Requires self-awareness of one's own cultural background, biases, and privileges
• Trauma survivors from diverse backgrounds may have different cultural norms, beliefs, and practices surrounding trauma, healing, and disclosure (collectivism vs. individualism, power distance)
• Culturally competent interviewers adapt their approach to respect and accommodate these differences

Applying Culturally Sensitive Interviewing Techniques

• Use appropriate language, respect cultural taboos, understand non-verbal communication norms (eye contact, personal space, touch)
• Build trust through cultural humility and empathy
• Be aware of potential cultural stigmas or shame associated with trauma in certain communities (sexual violence, mental health)
• Approach sensitive topics with care and use culturally appropriate framing
• Understand the historical and systemic factors that contribute to trauma in marginalized communities (racism, discrimination, oppression)

Language Barriers in Trauma Interviews

Assessing Language Proficiency and Comfort Level

• Language barriers can significantly impact the accuracy and depth of information gathered in trauma-informed interviews
• Assess the survivor's language proficiency and comfort level in the interview language
• When working with survivors with limited proficiency, engage professional interpreters trained in trauma-informed practices and confidentiality

Facilitating Effective Communication with Interpreters

• Brief interpreters on the purpose and sensitive nature of the interview
• Establish clear guidelines for communication flow and cultural considerations
• Speak directly to the survivor, maintain eye contact, and use clear, concise language to facilitate accurate interpretation
• Be attuned to potential misunderstandings or miscommunications due to language differences and clarify information as needed

Adapting Interviewing Techniques for Cultures

Aligning Communication Styles with Cultural Norms

• Different cultures may have varying communication styles (direct vs. indirect, high-context vs. low-context, emotional expressiveness vs. restraint)
• Adapt communication style to align with the survivor's cultural norms
• In some cultures, certain trauma-related topics may be taboo or stigmatized (sexual violence, mental health)
• Approach these topics with sensitivity and use culturally appropriate language and framing

Considering Cultural Values and Non-Verbal Communication

• Cultural values (collectivism vs. individualism, power distance) can influence how survivors perceive and discuss their experiences
• Be aware of these values and adapt questions and approach accordingly
• Non-verbal communication (eye contact, personal space, touch) can vary across cultures
• Be attuned to the survivor's non-verbal cues and adjust own non-verbal communication to create a comfortable and culturally appropriate environment
• Be aware of cultural beliefs surrounding gender roles, authority figures, and help-seeking behavior, as these can impact the survivor's willingness to disclose and engage

Recognizing Cultural Biases in Interviews

Identifying Implicit Biases and Assumptions

• Interviewers' own cultural backgrounds, biases, and assumptions can unconsciously influence their perceptions, judgments, and interactions with trauma survivors from different cultures
• Implicit biases (stereotypes, prejudices based on race, ethnicity, religion, or other cultural factors) can lead to misinterpretation of information, insensitive questioning, or failure to build trust and rapport
• Engage in ongoing self-reflection and cultural humility to identify and challenge own biases and assumptions
• Acknowledge own cultural limitations, be open to learning from the survivor's perspective, and continuously seek to expand cultural knowledge and understanding

Mitigating Power Dynamics and Seeking Feedback

• Be aware of power dynamics and privilege that may exist based on own cultural identity and position in relation to the survivor
• This awareness can help mitigate potential power imbalances and create a more equitable and collaborative interview process
• Seek feedback from cultural experts, colleagues, or survivors themselves to identify blind spots and improve cultural competence and sensitivity in the interviewing process